Dermatology Flashcards
Name the 4 main functions of the skin
Protection, Thermoregulation, Sensation and Metabolism
Explain the changes of skin as it ages
The Epidermis becomes thinner and flatter,
making the skin appear paler and more translucent.
The number of melanocytes decrease, but the remaining melanocytes increase in size. There is uneven distribution of melanocytes leading to uneven pigmentation, i.e. Age Spots.
Skin becomes wrinkled, due to depletion of elastic fibres.
Skin becomes dry as a result of atrophy of sebaceous glands.
Name the three layers of the skin
Epidermis, Dermis and Hypodermis
How many sub-layers does the Epidermis have?
5
Name the sub-layers of the Epidermis (Superficial to deep)
Stratum Corneum, Stratum Lucidum, Stratum Granulosum, Stratum Spinosum/Basale (a.k.a. Germinal layer)
How many sub-layers does the Dermis have?
2
Name the sub-layers of the Dermis (Superficial to deep)
The papillary dermis and the reticular layer
What does the Hypodermis/Subcutaneous layer consist of?
Composed of adipose and connective tissue
What are the (4) functions of the Hypodermis/Subcutaneous layer?
Supports, nourishes, insulates, and cushions the skin.
Name the two distinct parts of hair
The follicle (embedded within root) and the hair shaft (visible part)
The name of the muscle that contracts to raise the hair in response to stimuli
Pilomotor muscles
Name the 3 components of the hair shaft
Cuticle, Cortex, Medulla
The properties of the Cuticle, Cortex and Medulla within the hair shaft
The cuticle is transparent and covers the
hair shaft, protecting and preventing it from losing moisture.
The cortex contains melanin which provides colour to the hair, stores oils, provides flexibility and elasticity, and adds shape.
The medulla is a inner hollow core that runs the length of the shaft.
Name the two types of sweat glands
Eccrine glands and Apocrine glands
Where on the body are Eccrine glands located?
Major sweat glands of the human body, found in virtually all skin, with the highest density in palm and soles, then on the head, but much less on the torso and the extremities.
Where on the body are Apocrine glands located?
Larger sweat glands, located in the axillary and genital regions.
What is the function of sweat glands?
Sweat glands function to produce sweat/perspiration, which collects on the surface, evaporates and cools the body
What is the function of nails?
Function to protect the tips of fingers and toes
What are the two most commonly used antibiotics used to treat bacterial skin infections?
Flucloxacillin, QDS. If allergic, to penicillin – Clarithromycin BD.
When treating a bacterial skin infection, what antibiotic does NICE recommend if the patient is pregnant?
Erythromycin if pregnant, but Clarithromycin also used.
When treating Cellulitis, if the infection is near eyes or nose, what antibiotic is recommended and why?
Co-amoxiclav because it has wider anaerobic coverage.
When treating mild, localised impetigo, what topical antiseptic is recommended?
Hydrogen peroxide 1%
If Hydrogen peroxide 1% is unsuitable for treating impetigo (e.g. close to eyes), what is recommended?
Topical antibiotic - Fusidic acid
If impetigo is widespread, what treatment options should be considered?
Topical antibiotics OR short course of Oral antibiotics.