Skin Disorders and Conditions pt1

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to skin disorders and conditions.

actinic keratosis

A condition characterized by pink or flesh-colored precancerous lesions that feel sharp or rough, often due to sun damage.

albinism

A genetic condition resulting in the absence of melanin pigment in the body, affecting skin, hair, and eyes.

anhidrosis

A deficiency in perspiration, often a result of fever or skin disease, requiring medical treatment.

atopic dermatitis

An inflammatory skin condition characterized by excessive inflammation, dry skin, redness, and itching due to allergies and irritants.

basal cell carcinoma

The most common and least severe type of skin cancer, often appearing as light, pearly nodules.

body dysmorphic disorder

A psychological disorder where individuals have a preoccupation with perceived flaws in their appearance.

bulla (plural: bullae)

A large blister containing watery fluid, larger than a vesicle.

carbuncle

A cluster of boils or large inflammation of the subcutaneous tissue caused by Staphylococci bacteria.

bromhidrosis

Foul-smelling perspiration, typically occurring in the armpits or on the feet.

comedo (plural: comedones)

A clogged hair follicle, open comedones are known as blackheads, while closed comedones are whiteheads.

conjunctivitis

Also known as pinkeye; a contagious infection of the mucous membranes around the eye.

contact dermatitis

An inflammatory skin condition caused by contact with a substance or chemical.

crust

Dead cells that form over a wound or blemish during the healing process.

cyst

A closed, abnormally developed sac containing fluid, infection, or other material.

dermatillomania

An obsessive-compulsive disorder where individuals pick at their skin to the point of injury.

dermatitis

Any inflammatory condition of the skin; several types include atopic and contact dermatitis.

dermatologist

A physician specializing in diseases and disorders of the skin, hair, and nails.

dermatology

The medical branch of science that studies skin, its nature, structure, functions, diseases, and treatment.

diaphoresis

Excessive perspiration due to a medical condition.

eczema

An inflammatory disease of the skin that can be acute or chronic, causing dry or moist lesions.

edema

Swelling caused by a fluid imbalance in cells or a response to injury or infection.

ephelids

Also known as freckles; tiny round or oval pigmented areas of skin due to sun exposure.

erythema

Redness of the skin caused by inflammation.

excoriation

A skin sore or abrasion produced by scratching or scraping.

fissure

A crack in the skin that penetrates the dermis.

folliculitis

Inflammation of hair follicles caused by a bacterial infection.

furuncle

A subcutaneous abscess filled with pus; commonly known as a boil.

herpes simplex virus 1

A strain of the herpes virus that causes fever blisters or cold sores.

herpes zoster

Also known as shingles; a painful skin condition caused by the chickenpox virus.

hyperhidrosis

Excessive perspiration not related to exercise or heat.

hyperkeratosis

Thickening of the skin caused by a mass of keratinized cells.

hyperpigmentation

Overproduction of skin pigment.

hypopigmentation

Absence of pigment, leading to lighter skin patches.

impetigo

A contagious skin infection caused by bacteria characterized by blisters and crusty lesions.

keloid

A thick scar resulting from excessive growth of fibrous tissue.

keratosis

An abnormal thick buildup of keratinized cells.

lentigo

Freckles; small yellow-brown spots resulting from sun exposure.

leukoderma

A skin disorder with light, abnormal patches due to various causes.

macule (plural: maculae)

A flat spot or discoloration on the skin, such as a freckle.

milia

Small, firm papules with no visible opening, often seen in dry skin types.

miliaria rubra

Also known as prickly heat; an acute inflammatory disorder of sweat glands.

malignant melanoma

The most serious form of skin cancer, characterized by black or dark patches.

mole

pigmented nevus; a brownish spot ranging in color from tan to bluish black; some are flat, resembling freckles; others are raised and darker

Acne

chronic inflammatory skin disorder of the sebaceous glands that is characterized by comedones and blemishes; commonly known as acne simplex or acne vulgaris

Comedogenic

tendency for an ingredient to clog follicles and cause a buildup of dead skin cells, resulting in comedones (blackheads)

Herpes simplex virus 2

strain of the herpes virus that infects the genitals

Hypertrophy

abnormal growth of the skin; many are benign, or harmless

Keratoma

acquired, superficial, thickened patch of epidermis; a callus is a keratoma caused by continued, repeated pressure or friction on any part of the skin, especially the hands and feet

Lesions

mark, wound, or abnormality; structural changes in tissues caused by damage or injury

Keratosis Pilaris

redness and bumpiness common on the cheeks or upper arms; it is caused by blocked hair follicles; the patches of irritation are accompanied by a rough texture and small pinpoint white milia