Dermatology Flashcards
What are the four main cells in the epidermis?
Keratinocytes = produce keratin as protective barrier
Langerhans’ cells = antigen presentation and activating T-lymphocytes
Melanocytes = profuced melanin whuch protect cell nuclei from UV radiation
Merkel cells = nerve endings
What are the layers of the epidermis?
Basal cell = actively dividing - deepest
Prickle cell = differentiating cells
Granular cell layer = cells lose nuclei and contain granules of keratohyaline
Horny layer = layer of keratin
What are the 4 phases of wound healing?
Haemostasis - vasoconstriction and clot formation
Inflammation - vasodilation, migration of neutrophils and macrophages
Proliferation - granulation tissue formation and angiogenesis
Remodelling - collagen fibre re-organisation
What is necrotising fasciitis?
Infection of the deep fascia with tissue necrosis
How does necrotising fasciitis present?
Was is the management?
Severe pain
Erythematous, blistering and necrotic skin
Unwell with fever and tachycardia
IV abx
What is cellulitis and erysipelas?
Cellulitis = infection of deep subcut tissue
Erysipelas = infection of dermis and upper subcut tissue
What organisms cause cellulitis / erysipelas?
Strep pyogenes and staphylococcus aureus
How does cellulitis / eyrsipelas present?
Signs of inflammation = swelling, erythema, warmth, pain
Systemically unwell with fever
Erysipelas = well-defined, red raised border
What is the management of cellulitis / erysipelas?
What are the possible complications?
Managment = flucloxacillin
Complicationsb = local necrosis, abscess and septicaemia
