Skin infections

Question 1

What is a dermatophyte infection?

Answer 1

This is ringworm, fungal infection of the dead keratin

Question 2

What is the presentation of ringworm infection?

Answer 2

This causes a round scaly, itchy lesion whose edge is more inflamed than its centre

Question 3

What is the proper name for ringworm?

Answer 3

It is called tinea followed by the the part of the body in latin e.g. tinea pedis (foot) or capitis (scalp)

Question 4

What are the investigations and treatment of ringworm?

Answer 4

To inveastigate take scrapings from the edge of the lesion and send for microscopy (rapid result) and culture (4-6 weeks)
Treatment is with topical antifugals e.g. imidazole
For scalp infection need oral antifungals
Nail infection needs to confirm infetion prior to treatment

Question 5

How do you differentiate between candida and lichens planus?

Answer 5

Candida wipes of with a spatula whereas lichens planus does not

Question 6

How do you treat candidiasis?

Answer 6

With an antifungal e.g. imidazole cream

Question 7

What is the presentation and treatment of impetigo?

Answer 7

Bacterial infection that is a contagious superficial infection of staph aureus which causes honey coloured crusts
It is treated with fusidic acid
Then topical antibiotics
Then oral antibiotics if severe (7 days flucloxacillin)

Question 8

What is the presentation and treatment of cellulitis?

Answer 8

This is caused by beta haemolytic streps and is painful with swelling, erythema, causes systemic upset
Treated with benzylpenicllin 600mg/6hr + flucloxacillin 500mg/6hr

Question 9

How do you treat warts?

Answer 9

Topical salicylic acid for 12 wks

Cryotherapy

Question 10

How is herpes zoster virus treated?

Answer 10

Causes red papules and vesicles, treated with aciclovir in severe forms

Question 11

What is erysipelas?

Answer 11

A sharply well defined superficial strep pyogenes infection

This is more superficial than cellulitis

Question 12

What is the cause and treatment of folliculitis?

Answer 12

It is caused by staphs or streps
Treated with antiseptic bodywash
Then topical antibiotics e.g. erythromycin
Then oral antibiotics

Question 13

What is the presentation of herpes simplex infection?

Answer 13

It presents as a cluster of vesicles on an erythematous base

Question 14

What is the treatment for scabies?

Answer 14

Permethrin or malathion