Skin Disorders

Eczema

Eczema is a disease in the form of dermatitis, or inflammation of the epidermis. This encompasses a broad range of skin conditions. Eczema includes dryness, rashes, redness, skin edema or skin swelling, itching, crusting, flaking, blistering, cracking, bleeding, and/or areas or temporary skin discoloration. Eczema is often found on the flexor aspect of joints.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic, noncontagious autoimmune disease that affects the skin and joints. It commonly causes red scaly patches to appear on the skin, and features areas of inflammation and excessive skin production. These patches are called psoriatic plaques, and frequently occur on knees and elbows but can affect any area including scalp and genitalia. Psoriasis is likely to be found on the extensor aspect of joints.

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer generally develops in the epidermis, so a tumor is usually clearly visible. This makes most cancers detectable in early stages. The most common skin cancers are [Page 436]basal cell cancer, squamous cell cancer, and melanoma; each of these is named after the type of skin cell from which it arises. Melanoma is the least common, but the most serious. Nonmelanoma skin cancers are the most common.

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a skin reaction resulting from exposure to allergens or irritants. (Phototoxic dermatitis occurs when the allergen or irritant is activated by sunlight.) Contact dermatitis in a localized rash with inflammation present in epidermis and dermis. It results in large, burning, and itchy rashes. It can take days to fade, and only if the skin no longer comes in contact with the allergen or irritant.

Sebaceous Cysts

Sebaceous cysts are slow-growing, harmless bumps under the skin. The cysts usually contain dead skin and other skin particles. Can usually be treated by a physician by puncturing and removing the contents. If the cyst reappears it may have to be surgically removed. However, if a cyst becomes infected, treatment may include administering antibiotics and then surgically removing it.

Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis pilaris is a common skin disorder characterized by small, pointed pimples. The pimples usually appear on the upper arms, thighs, and buttocks. The condition worsens in the winter and clears up in the summer. There is no known cause, but it tends to run in families.

Dry Skin

Dry skin is a very common condition, usually characterized by irritated skin and itchiness. Frequent bathing can aggravate dry skin, as can cold air in the winter. Dry skin may become flaky or scaly. However, dry skin symptoms may resemble other skin conditions or result from other disorders such as under active thyroid or acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).

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