Dermatitis Flashcards
What is dermatitis?
Inflammation of the skin that can be acute or chronic.
What are the key features of acute dermatitis?
Erythema, edema, papules, vesicles, bullae, exudation, fissuring, and scaling.
What are the key features of chronic dermatitis?
Lichenification, fissures, excoriation, dyspigmentation (hyper/hypopigmentation).
What are the major types of eczema?
Atopic, seborrheic, contact (irritant and allergic), discoid, gravitational, pompholyx, photoallergic.
What is atopic dermatitis?
A chronic, pruritic inflammatory skin condition affecting face, neck, arms, and legs.
What areas are usually spared in atopic dermatitis?
Groin and axillary regions.
At what age does atopic dermatitis commonly appear?
85% in the first year of life, highest in infancy and childhood.
What is the male-to-female ratio of atopic dermatitis?
M:F = 1:1.4.
What is the prevalence of atopic dermatitis?
15-30% in children, 2-10% in adults.
What are the two main pathophysiological mechanisms of atopic dermatitis?
Primary immune dysfunction and primary epithelial barrier defect.
Which genetic mutation is associated with atopic dermatitis?
Filaggrin gene mutation.
How does environmental exposure contribute to atopic dermatitis?
Exposure to allergens in utero or during childhood may trigger immune responses.
What is the hallmark symptom of atopic dermatitis?
Severe itching.
What are the common distribution patterns of atopic dermatitis in different age groups?
Babies: face and trunk; Children: flexures; Adults: face, trunk, and limbs.
What is the primary diagnostic method for atopic dermatitis?
Clinical examination.
What lab tests may be useful in atopic dermatitis?
CBC, IgE levels, skin swab for Staphylococcus aureus.
What are the mainstays of atopic dermatitis treatment?
Moisturizers and topical steroids.
What are examples of recommended moisturizers for atopic dermatitis?
Sebamed, Cetaphil, CeraVe, petroleum jelly.
What are common topical steroids used for atopic dermatitis?
Hydrocortisone, triamcinolone, betamethasone.
What is the second-line treatment for atopic dermatitis?
Topical calcineurin inhibitors (Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus).
What are systemic treatments for severe atopic dermatitis?
Methotrexate, azathioprine, cyclosporine, mycophenolate mofetil, dupilumab.
What additional therapies help in atopic dermatitis management?
Phototherapy (narrowband UVB), diluted bleach baths, intranasal mupirocin.
What are key lifestyle recommendations for atopic dermatitis?
Soft clothing, avoiding wool/nylon, mild detergents, short fingernails.
What should be avoided in atopic dermatitis if food allergies are present?
Specific food triggers.
What is allergic contact dermatitis?
A delayed hypersensitivity reaction to allergens causing localized dermatitis.
What are common allergens causing allergic contact dermatitis?
Nickel, dichromate, rubber, hair dye, perfumes, preservatives, lanolin.
What are some sources of nickel exposure in allergic contact dermatitis?
Jewelry, bra clips, watches, jean studs.
How is allergic contact dermatitis diagnosed?
Patch testing.
What is irritant contact dermatitis?
Skin inflammation due to exposure to irritants like detergents, alkalis, acids, solvents.
What occupational factor is associated with irritant contact dermatitis?
Frequent handwashing and prolonged exposure to chemicals.
What are common irritants in contact dermatitis?
Soaps, detergents, acids, alkalis, solvents.
What is the key difference between allergic and irritant contact dermatitis?
Allergic contact dermatitis is immune-mediated; irritant contact dermatitis is caused by direct damage.
What is discoid (nummular) eczema?
Coin-shaped eczematous lesions, usually on the limbs, more common in men.
What is pompholyx (dyshidrotic) eczema?
Intensely itchy vesicles and bullae on palms, fingers, and soles.
What are risk factors for pompholyx eczema?
Atopic dermatitis, irritant contact dermatitis, fungal infections.
What is the first step in treating contact dermatitis?
Avoidance of allergens and irritants.
What is the role of antihistamines in dermatitis treatment?
They help control itching.
What are examples of sedating antihistamines used in dermatitis?
Hydroxyzine, chlorpheniramine, diphenhydramine.
What are examples of non-sedating antihistamines used in dermatitis?
Loratadine, cetirizine, levocetirizine, bilastine.
What type of phototherapy is used for dermatitis?
Narrowband UVB therapy.
Which bacteria commonly superinfects atopic dermatitis?
Staphylococcus aureus.
What systemic conditions are associated with atopic dermatitis?
Asthma, allergic rhinitis, food allergies.
What is lichenification?
Skin thickening with pronounced markings due to chronic scratching.
What is dyspigmentation in dermatitis?
Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation due to chronic inflammation.
What type of dermatitis is commonly seen in the hands of healthcare workers?
Irritant contact dermatitis.
What is the role of psychological therapy in dermatitis?
Helps manage stress, which can worsen symptoms.
Why should wool and nylon fabrics be avoided in atopic dermatitis?
They can irritate sensitive skin and trigger flare-ups.
What is the recommended temperature for bathing in atopic dermatitis?
Lukewarm water to prevent excessive skin dryness.
What is the primary defense against dermatitis exacerbations?
Consistent use of moisturizers and avoiding triggers.
What are excoriations in dermatitis?
Scratches or erosions caused by itching.
What is perioral dermatitis?
Inflammatory papules and pustules around the mouth, often aggravated by topical steroids.
How does seborrheic dermatitis present?
Greasy, scaly patches on the scalp, face, and upper body.
What is the primary treatment for seborrheic dermatitis?
Antifungal agents (ketoconazole), mild steroids, medicated shampoos.
Which populations are more prone to seborrheic dermatitis?
Infants (cradle cap) and adults with Parkinson’s or HIV.
What is gravitational (stasis) dermatitis?
Dermatitis due to chronic venous insufficiency, often seen in the lower legs.
What is the primary cause of stasis dermatitis?
Venous hypertension leading to skin inflammation and breakdown.
What is the best preventive measure for stasis dermatitis?
Leg elevation, compression therapy, treating underlying venous disease.
