Dermatology Review Flashcards

Flashcards covering key terminology and concepts from dermatology lecture notes.

Epidermal Melanin Unit

The basic functional unit of pigmentation in the skin involving melanocytes.

Psoriasis

A chronic autoimmune condition characterized by rapid skin cell turnover and plaques with silvery scales.

Parakeratosis

A condition where keratinization occurs with retention of nuclei in the stratum corneum.

Keratinocytes

The predominant cell type in the epidermis, responsible for forming a protective barrier.

Hyperkeratosis

The thickening of the outer layer of the skin, often associated with certain skin disorders.

Acanthosis

Thickening of the stratum spinosum, often seen in conditions like psoriasis.

Dermatitis

Inflammation of the skin resulting in redness, swelling, and itchiness.

Onychomycosis

A fungal infection of the nails, often leading to discoloration and thickening.

Lichen Planus

An inflammatory condition characterized by flat, violet-colored bumps on the skin.

Beau's Lines

Depressions running across the width of the natural nails, indicating temporary interruption of nail growth.

Melasma

A skin condition causing brown or gray patches, often due to sun exposure or hormonal changes.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

A common skin condition that causes scaly patches, red skin, and stubborn dandruff.

Civatte Bodies

Dysmorphic keratinocytes that are a histological feature seen in lichen planus.

Ustekinumab

A biologic drug used in the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Dermatofibroma

A benign skin tumor that is usually firm and can be brownish in color.

Erythema Multiforme

A skin disorder resulting in target-like lesions, often triggered by infections or medications.

Nail Pitting

Dents or grooves in the nails often associated with psoriasis or alopecia areata.

True Leukonychia

White discoloration of the nails that typically signifies an underlying systemic condition.

Lupus Vulgaris

A chronic form of cutaneous tuberculosis presenting as reddish-brown lesions on the skin.

HLA-B27

A genetic marker often associated with autoimmune disorders like ankylosing spondylitis.

Acne Vulgaris

A common skin condition characterized by clogged hair follicles leading to pimples and cysts.

Alopecia Areata

An autoimmune condition causing hair loss in patches.

Calcinosis Cutis

The formation of calcium deposits in the skin, often associated with underlying metabolic disorders.

Nevus

A benign growth of melanocytes in the skin, commonly known as a mole.

ABCD Rule

A guide for identifying melanoma: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than 6mm.

Vitiligo

A chronic skin condition characterized by patches of skin losing their pigment.