Infectious Diseases Affecting the Skin and Eyes

Flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to infectious diseases affecting the skin and eyes.

MRSA

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus; a common cause of skin lesions resistant to antibiotics.

Skin lesions

Raised, red, tender areas on the skin often containing pus, associated with infections like MRSA.

Culture and diagnosis

Methods used to identify the presence of pathogens, such as PCR or blood agar.

Cellulitis

A fast-spreading infection affecting the dermis and subcutaneous tissues.

Maculopapular rash

Skin eruptions characterized by flat to slightly raised colored bumps.

Measles (Rubeola)

Highly contagious viral infection that causes fever, cough, and a characteristic rash.

Koplik’s spots

Oral lesions associated with measles, typically appearing before the rash.

Vesicular rash

A rash featuring small blisters filled with fluid, common in diseases like chickenpox.

Herpes Zoster

Also known as shingles; reactivation of the chickenpox virus leading to painful vesicular eruptions.

Tinea

A group of fungal infections of the skin typically referred to as ringworm.

Conjunctivitis

Inflammation of the conjunctiva, often resulting in a milky discharge or clear watery exudate.

Neonatal conjunctivitis

Eye infection in newborns often caused by N. gonorrhoeae or Chlamydia trachomatis.

Postherpetic neuralgia

A complication of shingles characterized by lasting nerve pain after the rash has cleared.

Immunocompromised

Individuals whose immune system is weakened, making them more susceptible to infections.