Skin Disorders Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and definitions related to the skin disorders discussed in the lecture notes.

Epidermis

The outermost layer of skin, which is avascular and consists of five layers.

Dermis

The layer of skin beneath the epidermis containing connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves.

Hypodermis

Subcutaneous tissue below the dermis that contains fat cells and connective tissue.

Keratin

A protein that provides waterproofing to the skin.

Melanin

Skin pigment that determines skin color and is produced by melanocytes.

Albinism

A condition characterized by a lack of melanin production, leading to very light skin.

Vitiligo

A skin condition resulting in small areas of hypopigmentation.

Pruritus

Itching of the skin, often associated with allergic reactions or irritations.

Lesion

An abnormal change in the structure of skin, which can be indicative of disease or injury.

Macule

A flat, circumscribed area of discoloration on the skin.

Papule

A small, solid elevation on the skin.

Pustule

A small raised lesion filled with pus.

Fissure

A crack in the skin.

Urticaria

Also known as hives; characterized by raised, itchy welts on the skin.

Atopic Dermatitis

A chronic inflammatory skin condition also known as eczema, often hereditary.

Psoriasis

A chronic skin disorder that results in red patches covered with silvery scales.

Pemphigus

An autoimmune disorder characterized by blisters on the skin and mucous membranes.

Scleroderma

A condition involving the hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues.

Leprosy

A chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, affecting skin and nerves.

Cellulitis

A bacterial infection of the dermis and subcutaneous tissues.

Furuncle

A boil, which is a painful nodule filled with pus usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus.

Impetigo

A highly contagious skin infection characterized by red vesicles that can rupture and crust.

Tinea

A fungal infection of the skin, commonly known as ringworm.

Herpes Simplex

A viral infection that causes cold sores; transmitted via direct contact.

Malignant Melanoma

A type of skin cancer arising from melanocytes that is highly metastatic.