Intro Dermatology Flashcards
What are some properties of skin?
Amazing protective properties(thin as paper, but impressive protection)
As cells move up, they die (proliferated)
moisture determines pliability
The skin is slightly acidic, called the “acid mantle”
It is the site of Vitamin D synthesis
Photo reactions to drug therapy
What is included in the dermis?
Hair follicles, sebaceous and sweat glands
sensations of itch, stinging, pain
What is included hypodermis?
subcutaneous, connective, and adipose tissue
What are some issues with nails?
Hangnails, fungal infections, psoriasis(pits in nail)
What are some factors that affect drug absorption into the skin?
Skin hydration (more hydrated = more absorption)
pH of drug and vehicle
Thickness of application (thinner layers = more effective per unit of drug used)
Temperature of skin
Damaged skin (increased absorption)
What is difference between dosage forms?
The following are listed with the highest efficacy first
Ointments (more effective), creams, and lotions (less effective)
What is a FTU (fingertip unit)?
One fingertip unitis the amount of topical drug that is squeezed out from a standard tube along a adults fingertip.
One FTU is enough to treat an area of skin twice the size of the flat of an adult’s hand with the fingers together
What are the different types of blisters?
Vesicles (less exaggerated blister)
Blistering (classic blister)
Bullae (exaggerated version of blister)
What are some lesions that may indicate the process of inflammation and infection?
Erythema (red patch, often is deodourant reaction)
Wheal (found commonly in allergy tests)
Papule (small bump on skin, found in acne)
Pustule, nodules, and cysts are worsening types of lesions found in acne
Abcess (foliculitis, pus filled)
Crusting (reaction to earrings, thickened skin)
What are some lesions that are characteristic of chronic skin issues?
Scales (raised above the surrounding skin)
Plaque (raised, white, thickened skin)
Patch (a large macule, vitiligo)
This process is called lichenification
What type of skin lesions is caused by mechanical irritation?
Excoriation (can be caused by repetitive motions, top layers of skin are removed)
Why do we have to worry about skin conditions in people with diabetes?
Glucose toxicity can limit sensation to the point where individuals do not feel ulcers on the bottom of their feet
What is a macule?
A macule is a flat, distinct, discoloured area of skin less than 1 cm wide, It doesn’t involve any change in the thickness or texture of the skin
What are some common actions pharmacists take in response to a patient asking about a rash?
1) Unmedicated soothing lotion
2) antibiotic/antifungal
3) do nothing? (a valid option, it helps us see progression. This can help pin point exact diagnosis)
What are some characteristics of dry skin?
The legs, hands, forearms, face, shoulders/back are common areas
Ranges from annoying to being painful (cracks can appear)
Often associated with itch
What are some factors that can cause dry skin?
Excessive bathing/showering (dial down the temperature)
Low humidity (winter)
aging (more oil production in youth)
sun damage
agressive soaps
mechanical rubbing
medical conditions (diabetes, hypthyroid, and others)
What is the Itch-Scratch Cycle?
1) Itching leads to scratching
2) Scartching damages the skin
3) Causes eczema to worsen
4) This leads to more itching