Clinical Approach To Dermatology Flashcards
Role of the epidermis
Avascular barrier against UV, microorganisms and chemicals
Retains moisture
Role of the dermis
Regulates the body temperature
Sensation to external environment
Activates and facilitates immune function and blood flow
Role of the subcutaneous layer
Adipose layer for thermoregulation
Protects underlying organs and energy reserve
Sensation and motor and blood flow
Dermatoscope
Visualization of the skin by using a liquid interface (rubbing alcohol) and polarized light to visualize underneath the stratum corneum layer and gives a 3D view of the skin
Woods lamp
Is a UV light (“black light”) that can be used with fluoresce (to detect corneal abrasions specifically)
- helps detect bacterial and fungal infections as well as corneal abrasions
10 primary lesions of dermatology
Flat lesions
1) = macula ( <1cm)
2) = patch (>1cm)
Depressed
3) erosions (can be any size)
4) ulceration (can be any size)
Raised or palpable
5) papule (<1 cm)
6) nodule (>1 cm)
7) vesicle (<1cm)
8) pustule (<1cm)
9) Bullard (>1cm)
10) plaque (>1cm)
Erosion vs ulcerations
Erosion = only goes through the epidermis
- doesnt scar when heals**
Ulceration = goes through epidermis and dermis
- will scar with healing**
Eczema treatment
Emollients
Cool compresses
Avoiding hot water, frequent baths and harsh chemicals
Steroids
Vitamin D derivatives and antihistamines
do whatever you need to avoid itching
Seborrheic dermatitis
Causes white plaques along the face or scalp
Treatments:
- zinc/selenium shampoos
- ketoconazole shampoo
- metronidazole gels
- typical antifungal crime
- topical steroids
- calcineruin inhibitors
Psoriasis treatments
Topical steroids
Topical vitamin D derivative
Immunosuppressive
Tinea corporis
Tinea pedis
Tinea cruris
Tinea corporis = ring worm infections
Tinea pedis = athletes foot
Tinea cruis = jock itch
- *all three require antifungal medications and keeping the area dry as best as is
- if under nails = may have to remove nail**
Cellulitis treatment
Antibiotics
Incision and drainage (only if abscess is present)
- also get culture as needed (recurrent or open drainage only)
Dermographism “skin writing”
Antihistamines for symptomatic
Otherwise just watchful waiting
Rhus dermatitis (allergic contact) treatment
- *immediate washing with soap within 10 minutes if possible**
- it is caused by urushiol exposure which can be removed almost fully before 10 minutes. After 10 minutes = only 50% can be removed and will still break out
Wet compress
Topical oral steroids and antihistamines as needed
Bentonite clay lotion
Does shingles ever cross the midline of the body?
NO
