Dermatitis 2 Flashcards
What is dermatitis?
Inflammation of the skin, which can be acute or chronic.
What are the main characteristics of acute dermatitis?
Erythema, edema, papules, vesicles, bullae, exudation, fissuring, scaling.
What are the main characteristics of chronic dermatitis?
Lichenification, fissures, excoriation, dyspigmentation (hyper/hypopigmentation).
What are the main types of eczema?
Atopic, seborrheic, contact (irritant/allergic), discoid, gravitational, pompholyx, photoallergic.
What is atopic dermatitis?
A chronic, pruritic inflammatory skin condition affecting the face, neck, arms, and legs.
What is 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 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 gene mutation is associated with atopic dermatitis?
Filaggrin gene mutation.
What environmental factors contribute to atopic dermatitis?
Exposure to allergens in utero or childhood, decreased skin barrier function.
What is the most common symptom of atopic dermatitis?
Severe itching.
How does the rash distribution vary with age in atopic dermatitis?
Infants: face/trunk; Children: flexures; Adults: face, trunk, widespread.
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 first-line treatments for atopic dermatitis?
Moisturizers and topical steroids.
What are common moisturizers used in atopic dermatitis?
Sebamed, Cetaphil, CeraVe, petroleum jelly.
What are common topical steroids for atopic dermatitis?
Hydrocortisone, triamcinolone, betamethasone.
What is the second-line treatment for atopic dermatitis?
Topical calcineurin inhibitors (Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus).
What systemic treatments are used for severe atopic dermatitis?
Methotrexate, azathioprine, cyclosporine, mycophenolate mofetil, dupilumab.
What is an additional therapy for atopic dermatitis?
Phototherapy (narrowband UVB).
What skin infection commonly complicates atopic dermatitis?
Staphylococcus aureus superinfection.
What are key lifestyle recommendations for atopic dermatitis?
Soft clothing, avoiding wool/nylon, mild detergents, short fingernails.
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.
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 is the main difference between allergic and irritant contact dermatitis?
Allergic dermatitis is immune-mediated; irritant dermatitis is caused by direct skin 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 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?
Hydroxyzine, chlorpheniramine, diphenhydramine.
What are examples of non-sedating antihistamines?
Loratadine, cetirizine, levocetirizine, bilastine.
What type of phototherapy is used for dermatitis?
Narrowband UVB therapy.
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 is the recommended temperature for bathing in atopic dermatitis?
Lukewarm water to prevent excessive skin dryness.
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.
What is the main treatment for allergic contact dermatitis?
Avoidance of allergens, topical steroids, antihistamines.
What are common sources of nickel exposure in allergic contact dermatitis?
Jewelry, bra clips, watches, jean studs.
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 the role of corticosteroids in dermatitis treatment?
They reduce inflammation and itching.
What is the purpose of diluted bleach baths in atopic dermatitis?
To reduce bacterial colonization and prevent infections.
What is the role of biologic therapy in atopic dermatitis?
Used for severe cases; e.g., Dupilumab targets IL-4 and IL-13 pathways.
What are the most common occupational triggers for irritant contact dermatitis?
Frequent handwashing, chemical exposure in cleaning and healthcare professions.
