Common Skin Complaints and Disorders

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and definitions related to common skin complaints and disorders, aiding in exam preparation.

Alopecia

An autoimmune disease causing hair loss which can be temporary or permanent.

Hyperpigmentation

An increase in skin color due to excess melanin production.

Vitiligo

A skin condition causing the total loss of pigment in patchy areas.

Melasma

Hyperpigmentation that occurs in sun-exposed areas, often during pregnancy.

Chloasma

Another term for melasma specifically during pregnancy.

Drug-Induced Hyperpigmentation

Skin discoloration caused by specific medications, such as amiodarone or minocycline.

Angioedema

Swelling of the dermis and subcutaneous tissues, often associated with hives.

Pruritus

Itching sensation often associated with dermatological diseases.

Urticaria

Also known as hives, it is characterized by wheals or papules and severe itching.

Scabies

A highly contagious mite infestation causing intense itching.

Pediculosis

Infestation of lice affecting various parts of the body.

Candidiasis

An infection caused by the fungus Candida, leading to mucocutaneous infections.

Dermatophytoses

Superficial skin infections caused by fungal organisms such as Trichophyton.

Onychomycosis

Fungal infection of the toenails and fingernails characterized by nail changes.

Impetigo

Highly contagious skin infection causing vesicular lesions, most common in children.

Folliculitis

Inflammation of hair follicles, which can lead to pustules.

Furuncles

Deep bacterial infections of hair follicles that form painful lumps.

Cellulitis

A bacterial infection involving both the dermis and subcutaneous tissue.

Warts

Contagious skin lesions caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Herpes Simplex Virus

Causes lifelong infections, primarily affecting oral and genital areas.

Atopic Dermatitis

A skin disorder characterized by pruritus and inflammation, often referred to as eczema.

Contact Dermatitis

Injury to the skin caused by contact with irritants or allergens.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Common chronic skin condition involving oily, scaly patches.

Psoriasis

Chronic skin disorder characterized by raised, erythematous plaques covered with silvery scales.

Actinic Keratosis

Precancerous skin lesions resulting from sun exposure, characterized by rough patches.

Malignant Melanoma

The most deadly skin cancer, marked by changes in mole appearance, including asymmetry and color variation.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

The most common type of skin cancer, usually localized and less aggressive.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

A type of nonmelanoma skin cancer that can be more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma.