Dermatology Flashcards
Starting with the most superficial, what are the layers of the epidermis?
- Keratin layer
- Granular layer
- Prickle cell layers
- Basal layer s
How would we recognise the sole of the foots or palm of hand on a biopsy?
Large keratin layer
What would psoriasis appear like on biopsy?
Epidermis is thickened and retiridges are longer. Keratin layer has dark dots (retained nuclei) showing skin is growing a lot quicker. Inflammatory infiltrate
What would acne appear like on biopsy?
Prominent sebaceous glands
What would a melanoma present like on biopsy?
Proliferation of melanocytes extending up through the epidermis
Describe the distribution and clinical features of psoriasis?
Symmetrical, favouring extensor surfaces
Morphology of psoriasis?
Erythematous, well defined scaly plaques
Treatments for psoriasis?
Emollients to reduce scaling. Steroids to reduce inflammation.
Vitamin D analogues to slow down rapid growth of epidermis.
What is the difference between bullous pemphigoid and bullous pemphigus?
Pemphigoid = ends in D because its a Deeper split. Roof of blister is thicker to remains in tact.
Pemphigus = ends in S because its a more Superficial split
What would you see on pathology and immunoflourence for bullous pemphigoid?
Sub-epidermal blister with linear band of IgG
What causes bullous pemphigoid?
Autoimmune - antibodies against the hemidesmosmes which attach epidermis to the dermis causing a sub-epidermal split
Treatment for bullous pemphigoid?
If localises, topical steroids (burst blisters but leave roof as natural dressing).
If extensive, oral tetracyclines due to anti-inflammatory effect or oral steroids.
Clinical presentation of bullous pemphigus?
Often see eroded blisters that have burst
Histology of bullous pemphigus?
blister within the epidermis rather than below, so roof is thinner and breaks more easily
Immunoflourencence of bullous pemphigus?
Chicken wire pattern, antibodies attacking desmosomes that hold keratinocytes together
Which structure of the skin is responsible for acne?
Pilosebaceous unit
Where are apocrine glands found?
Axilla
Pubic area