Day: March 6, 2024

Overview Vitiligo is an acquired depigmentation disorder due to the selective loss of melanocytes. Vitiligo is a common, chronic skin condition that results in depigmentation due to the loss of cells known as melanocytes that are important in the production and distribution of the pigment melanin. It causes well-circumscribed areas of depigmentation leading to large areas of white skin. Vitiligo can affect any race, but the condition is most striking in people with darker skin that can have a significant impact on quality of life and mental health. In most cases, it is a clinical diagnosis based on the characteristic finding

Introduction Psoriasis is a common, chronic, inflammatory papulosquamous disorder typically characterised by well-demarcated, scaly plaques and a relapsing-remitting course. Psoriasis is a common skin disorder that affects an estimated 1-3% of the world’s population. There are a number of distinct clinical patterns, the most common being chronic plaque psoriasis which accounts for 80-90% of cases. It is frequently associated with systemic diseases (e.g. psoriatic arthritis) and can also impact individuals’ self-esteem and mental wellbeing. Treatment tends to be with topical therapies (e.g. emollients, steroids, vitamin D analogues) with phototherapy and systemic therapies reserved for more severe or treatment-resistant disease. Epidemiology It is

Overview Impetigo is a common superficial bacterial skin infection that is highly contagious. Impetigo is considered the most common bacterial infection in children but can occur at any age. It relates to a superficial infection in the upper layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. The most commonly implicated bacteria as Staphylococcus aureus and Group A Streptococcus. Topical antibiotics are usually sufficient to treat the condition. Aetiology & pathophysiology Impetigo is commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus, which is a gram-positive coccus. Impetigo is usually caused by microorganisms that are commonly found on the skin. Bacteria are able to enter through breaks in the skin

Introduction Erythema nodosum (EN) is a panniculitis that presents with tender raised nodules that typically develop over the anterior shins. It is thought to occur due to a delayed hypersensitivity reaction that results in a panniculitis (inflammation of the subcutaneous fat). It is idiopathic in 30-50% of cases with the remainder occurring secondary to a wide variety of triggers. EN typically self-resolves over a few weeks though NSAIDs (in the absence of contraindications) are often given for symptomatic relief and may aid resolution. It is important to try and establish any underlying disorder that may exist. Epidemiology EN most commonly presents in women aged

Overview Erythema multiforme is an immune-mediated reaction that results in characteristic target lesions on the skin. Erythema multiforme (EM) is a skin hypersensitivity reaction that commonly occurs secondary to an infection or drugs. A hypersensitivity reaction is an exaggerated immune reaction that occurs in response to an antigen or allergen. EM is characterised by the presence of target lesions that are usually < 3 cm in size. These lesions have three striking features: A central blister or dusky red area A surrounding pale ring of oedema An erythematous halo in the periphery Epidemiology EM most commonly occurs in young adults (20-40 years old).

Introduction Atopic eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a common inflammatory skin condition that typically presents early in life. Atopic eczema normally presents in the first few years of life and normally follows a relapsing-remitting course. It is characterised by a dry, cracked and itchy rash that may follow a number of patterns of distribution. Episodic flares are followed by periods of remission, though the interval and length of episodes vary widely and some patients develop chronic disease without remission. Management tends to follow a stepped approach that involves emollients and additional agents such as topical steroids, antihistamines and oral steroids where needed. Complications

Introduction Acne vulgaris is a common chronic dermatological condition resulting from inflammation of the pilosebaceous unit. Acne vulgaris is extremely common in adolescence affecting up to 95% of young people. Though in most cases it is relatively mild, up to 1/3 have moderate or severe disease. It results in comedones and inflammatory lesions that typically affect the face, chest and back. Beyond (and secondary to) its dermatological manifestations it can have a profound impact on self-esteem and mental wellbeing. Most cases respond to topical and/or oral therapies (e.g. antibiotics and retinoids). Specialist dermatological and mental health support can be required. Epidemiology 20-35% of