paeds common skin conditions Flashcards
how does eczema present?
in infancy with dry, red, sore patches of skin over flexor surfaces (inside elbows/ knees)
- Can be on face/ neck
what is eczema?
chronic atopic condition caused by defect in normal continuity of skin barrier leading to inflammation in skin
- Genetic component
what is the pathophys of eczema?
defect in barrier that skin provides – gaps allow irritants, microbes and allergens to create immune response, resulting in inflammation and associated symptoms
what is the point maintenance of eczema?
Maintenance – creates artificial barrier to compensate for defective skin barrier – emollients
what can be used for maintenance of eczema?
- Thick and greasy as possible after washing and before bed
- Avoid hot baths, body washes that remove natural oils
- Soap substitutes
- Being aware of triggers
what is used within eczema flares?
thicker, topical emollients, topical steroids,
- wet wraps: covering affected areas in thick emollient and applying a wrap to keep moisture locked in overnight
- treating any viral/ bacterial infections
what specialist management can be used in eczema?
zinc impregnated bandages, topical tacrolimus, phototherapy, systemic immunosuppressants – oral corticosteroids, methotrexate, azathioprine
how should topical steroids be used in eczema management?
use for weakest steroid for shortest duration to help get skin under control
how do steroids work in eczema?
- settles immune activity and reduces inflammation
what can occur from using steroids topically?
- can lead to thinning of skin, bruising, tearing, stretch marks and telangiectasia – enlarged blood vessels under surface of skin
where should be avoided with topical steroids?
- avoid thin skin – face, around eyes, genital region – avoid completely in paeds?
what is urticaria?
hives
how does urticaria present?
- small itchy lumps that appear on skin
- associated with patchy erythematous rash
- localised to specific area/ widespread
- link to angioedema/ flushing of skin
what is pathophys of urticaria?
release of histamine and other pro-inflamm chemicals by mast cells – allergic reaction
- can be acute urticaria / autoimmune reaction or chronic idiopathic
what can cause acute urticaria?
: specifically triggered by something that stimulates mast cells to release mast cells:
- allergies to food, medications, animals
- contact with chemicals, latex, stinging nettles
- medications
- viral infections
- insect bites
- dermographism
