Dermatology: Part 2

A collection of key dermatological terms and their definitions to assist in understanding and reviewing key concepts for the exam.

Atopic Dermatitis

A chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by pruritus, associated with skin barrier dysfunction and often linked to allergic diseases.

Auspitz Sign

The appearance of pinpoint bleeding spots when psoriatic scales are scraped off.

Lichen Planus

An inflammatory disease characterized by pruritic, violaceous, flat-topped papules and sometimes mucosal lesions.

Contact Dermatitis

An inflammatory reaction of the skin resulting from direct contact with an irritant or allergen.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

A chronic condition marked by redness and scaling, typically in areas with a high density of sebaceous glands.

Melasma

Acquired brown hyperpigmentation often associated with hormonal changes, commonly seen on the face.

Vitiligo

A skin disorder characterized by the complete absence of melanocytes, leading to white macules.

Erythema Multiforme

An acute condition involving target lesions, usually triggered by infections or certain medications.

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

A severe mucocutaneous reaction characterized by extensive necrosis and detachment of the epidermis.

Urticaria

A common skin condition characterized by transient wheals and often accompanied by pruritus.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa

A chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting apocrine gland-bearing areas, leading to painful nodules and abscesses.

Bullous Pemphigoid

A chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by tense blisters and pruritus, commonly occurring in older adults.

Pemphigus Vulgaris

A severe autoimmune disease that causes flaccid blisters on skin and mucous membranes due to autoantibodies targeting desmosomes.

Psoriasis

A chronic inflammatory skin disease with a genetic basis, marked by well-defined red plaques covered with silvery scales.

Photosensitivity Reactions

Abnormal skin reactions to sunlight, which can include erythema, rash, or itching upon sun exposure.

Larva Migrans

A skin condition caused by the migration of hookworm larvae, leading to an intensely itchy, serpiginous rash.