Anatomy & Physiology

Skin AbnormalitiesSkin Diseases

Abnormalities

• Papules– Firm, raised areas– Example = chicken pox, pimples

• Macules– Flat spots on the skin– Example = freckles

Abnormalities

• Vesicles– Fluid (clear) filled blisters– Example = chicken pox

• Pustules– Pus filled sac– Example = acne

Abnormalities

• Crusts– Areas of dried pus and blood (scab)

• Wheals– Itchy, elevated areas (irregular shape)– Example = hives

Abnormalities

• Skin Ulcer– Deep loss of skin surface

Condition of the Skin

• Acne– Inflammation of the oil glands– Common among adolescence– Glands become blocked by oil & dirt

http://www.emedicinehealth.com/acne/page10_em.htm

Diseases

• Athlete’s foot– Fungal infection– Affects feet : itchy, burning, skin blisters– Tx: antifungal med; keep feet clean & dry

Diseases

• Dermatitis– Inflammation of the skin– Caused by irritants

– S&S dry skin, itchy, rash– Anti inflammatory cream, antihistamine meds

Diseases

• Skin cancer– Develops from a mole (change in size, shape,

color)– Bleeding / Itching may occur– Risks = exposure to UV rays

Diseases

• Impetigo– Highly contagious skin infection– Caused by strep / staph– S&S erythema, pustules, yellow crust – Tx: wash lesions with soap & water; antibiotics

Diseases

• Psoriasis– Chronic, noncontagious disease– Inherited skin disorder– S&S thick red areas covered with silver scales– No cure– Tx: UV treatment

Diseases

• Ringworm– Highly contagious fungal infection– S&S flat or raised circular area (white center): itchy – Tx: antifungal med

Diseases

• Wart– Caused by a viral infection– Hard, elevated & round surface– Tx: may disappear spontaneously; removal (laser,

chemical)