Drug Therapy for Disorders of the Skin

These flashcards cover the key concepts and drug therapies associated with skin disorders, as outlined in the lecture notes.

What is acne vulgaris characterized by?

Excessive production of sebum and obstruction of hair follicles.

What is dermatitis also referred to as?

Eczema.

What are the common symptoms of psoriasis?

Erythematous, dry, and scaling skin lesions.

What triggers urticaria ('hives')?

Histamine release by mast cells and basophils.

What medication is commonly prescribed for severe acne?

Isotretinoin.

What is the role of benzoyl peroxide in acne treatment?

It reduces P. acnes and helps prevent antibiotic resistance.

What is the main cause of drug-induced skin reactions?

Any medication, commonly appearing as a localized contact dermatitis.

What are the contraindications for isotretinoin?

Hypersensitivity to the drug, pregnancy, and certain psychiatric conditions.

What nutritional advice is given for acne prevention?

A low dietary glycemic load may help reduce inflammatory acne lesions.

What kind of infections often cause cellulitis?

Bacterial infections, mainly from Streptococcus or Staphylococcus.