derm glossary

A resource of all the terms you ever needed or wanted to know

Warts

Human papillomavirus is responsible for the widespread skin ailment known as warts (HPV). On any part of the body, including the hands, feet, and genital region, they appear as tiny, rough growths on the skin. Warts can be transferred both directly by coming into touch with the virus and indirectly by coming into contact with materials that have come into contact with the virus. Warts can be treated using a variety of methods, such as over-the-counter topical drugs, cryotherapy (freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen), and surgical removal. The location, size, and medical history of the patient, in addition to the wart's location and size, will all influence the recommended course of therapy. Warts may become unpleasant or itchy if...

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Venous Lake

Venous lake is a common vascular lesion that appears as a soft, blue papule usually on the lips, ears, or face. It occurs due to the dilation of small blood vessels near the skin surface. The cause of venous lake is unknown, but exposure to the sun is considered a risk factor. Treatment of venous lake is usually not necessary unless it is causing cosmetic concerns or bleeding. The most common method of treatment is laser therapy, which uses a focused beam of light to target the blood vessels and coagulate them, leading to the disappearance of the lesion. Other treatment options include cryotherapy (freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen) and electrodesiccation (destroying the lesion with an electric current). If...

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Vitiligo

Skin discoloration in patches is a symptom of the skin condition vitiligo. It happens when melanocytes, the cells in charge of pigmenting the skin, are destroyed or cease to function. Vitiligo is thought to be an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system targets and kills melanocytes, while its specific etiology is yet unknown. Although there is no recognized treatment for vitiligo, there are methods that can help the skin's look. Topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, NB-UVB phototherapy, excimer laser therapy, and depigmentation are among the available treatments. These procedures aim to lessen swelling, increase melanocyte production, or enhance the skin's look by whitening the surrounding skin. Skin grafting or tattooing may be options in specific circumstances. Vitiligo, especially if...

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Varicose Veins

In the legs and feet, varicose veins are enlarged, twisted, and swollen veins. They are brought on by veins with weak or broken valves, which can result in blood pooling in the veins, causing them to bulge and become apparent. Varicose veins can be treated in a variety of ways, including: Changes in lifestyle, such as shedding pounds, working out, donning compression stockings, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing. Sclerotherapy: In this procedure, the problematic veins are injected with a solution, causing them to collapse and finally disappear. Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT): This minimally invasive procedure heats and collapses the afflicted veins with the use of laser light. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA): This minimally invasive procedure heats and collapses the afflicted...

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Urticaria and Angioedema or Hives

Urticaria, also known as hives, is a common skin condition characterized by raised, itchy, and red welts on the skin. Angioedema is a related condition that involves swelling in the deeper layers of the skin and tissues. The causes of urticaria and angioedema can include allergic reactions to food, medications, insect bites, or environmental triggers like heat, cold, or sunlight. Stress, infection, and autoimmune disorders can also contribute to the condition. Treatment for urticaria and angioedema often involves identifying and avoiding triggers when possible. Antihistamines, corticosteroids, and other medications may be prescribed to relieve symptoms and reduce inflammation. For severe or chronic cases, other treatments like immunosuppressive drugs or biologics may be recommended. If left untreated, urticaria and angioedema can...

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Toe Nail Fungus (Onychomycosis)

Onychomycosis, sometimes referred to as toenail fungus, is a fungal condition that affects the toenails. It is more prevalent in older folks and those with lower immune systems and is brought on by different forms of fungi. The infection may result in the toenail thickening, changing color, and changing shape. Additionally, it may lead to the painful separation of the toenail from the nail bed. Topical and oral antifungal medicines, as well as laser therapy or surgery in extreme cases, are available treatments for toenail fungus. If the fungus is not treated, it may spread further and harm the nail and the skin around it. Tap in for your consultation

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Tinea Versicolor

A yeast overgrowth on the skin results in the common fungal skin ailment known as tinea versicolor. Typically on the chest, back, arms, and neck, the disorder can result in patches of discolored skin. The scaly or irritating patches can be any color, including pink, brown, or even white. Typically, antifungal creams, lotions, or shampoos are used to treat tinea versicolor. These products can be applied directly to the skin that is infected. Oral antifungal medicines may be required in extreme circumstances. It's crucial to remember that skin darkening may last for several weeks or months even after therapy. Tinea versicolor can develop farther and become more itchy or painful if left untreated. Furthermore, the discolored areas could grow more...

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Thick Toe Nails (Onychauxis)

Onychauxis, or thick toenails, can have a variety of causes. It could be brought on by aging, psoriasis, injuries, or fungal infections. Rarely, it may also be a sign of an underlying illness such thyroid disorders, diabetes, or circulation problems. The underlying reason of thick toenails will determine how to treat them. Antifungal medicine may be recommended if a fungal infection is the cause of the thickness. Sometimes it could be essential to remove the nail. Topical or oral medicines may be used to treat psoriasis-related thick toenails. Thick toenails can cause pain, discomfort, and trouble walking if they are not corrected. The enlarged nails may occasionally become infected, which can result in more severe consequences. A dermatologist or podiatrist...

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Sunburn

When the skin is exposed to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation for an extended period of time, sunburn develops. From minor redness and soreness to severe pain, blistering, and peeling, sunburns can range in severity. The main cause of sunburn is exposure to UV radiation, which harms skin cells and raises the risk of skin cancer as well as early aging and wrinkles. Anybody who spends too much time in the sun without wearing enough protection can get a sunburn, but those with fair skin are more susceptible. Symptom management techniques for sunburn include applying cool compresses, hydrating the skin, taking over-the-counter painkillers, and drinking enough of water to avoid dehydration. Prescription drugs could be required in extreme circumstances to...

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Sun Damaged Skin

Long-term exposure to the sun's dangerous UV rays can result in sun damaged skin. Skin damage from the sun's UV rays can result in a variety of skin conditions, such as hyperpigmentation, age spots, fine lines, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. The degree of sun damage determines how it should be treated. Topical creams, lotions, or serums that contain antioxidants or other helpful elements to help the skin heal can be used to treat mild instances. More invasive treatments, such chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser therapy, may be necessary for more severe cases. Premature aging, such as the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots, can be one of the long-term impacts of UV damage to the skin. Sun...

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Skin Infection / Molluscum

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV), which produces benign raised lesions or bumps on the skin. The infection is highly contagious and can be spread through direct skin-to-skin contact, contaminated objects, or contact with contaminated surfaces. The condition typically clears up on its own within a few months to a few years, but treatment may be recommended for faster resolution, to prevent the spread of the infection, or to reduce symptoms such as itching or irritation. Treatment options may include topical medications, cryotherapy (freezing), curettage (scraping off the lesions), or laser therapy. If left untreated, molluscum contagiosum can potentially last for several months to years. While it generally resolves on its own,...

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Skin Discoloration

Hyperpigmentation, another name for skin discoloration, is a frequent disorder where the skin darkens in certain places. Numerous things, such as sun exposure, hormone changes, aging, and skin traumas or inflammation, might contribute to its development. Depending on the underlying cause and seriousness of the illness, different treatments may be necessary for skin discoloration. Typical forms of treatment include: Topical creams and gels: These may contain substances that help lighten and level out the skin tone, such as hydroquinone, azelaic acid, or retinoids. Chemical peels: Using a chemical solution on the skin, the top layer of damaged skin is removed to expose a lighter, more even tone. Microdermabrasion: This non-invasive process employs a specialized instrument to remove the top layer...

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Skin Allergy

Allergies to substances that the immune system perceives as foreign invaders can cause skin allergies, commonly known as allergic contact dermatitis. Numerous symptoms, including as itching, redness, swelling, and rash, may result from this. Nickel, latex, perfumes, and some plants are a few things that frequently cause skin allergies. A patch test, which involves applying small quantities of numerous suspected allergens to the skin and watching for a reaction, may be used by a dermatologist to identify a skin allergy. Finding and avoiding the allergen trigger is usually the first step in treating skin allergies. Topical corticosteroids or other medicines may occasionally be recommended to treat symptoms and reduce inflammation. To calm the skin and stop additional inflammation, moisturizing lotions...

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Shingles

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. This is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body's nerve tissue. Later in life, the virus can reactivate, causing shingles. Shingles typically causes a painful rash that develops on one side of the body. The rash may be accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, headache, and chills. The rash can take several weeks to heal, and in some cases, it can lead to long-term nerve pain in the affected area. If shingles is left untreated, there can be several long-term effects. One of the most common complications of shingles is postherpetic neuralgia...

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Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that are spread through sexual contact. They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or other microorganisms. Common STDs include: Chlamydia: A bacterial infection that can cause pain or discharge during urination, and in some cases, infertility. It can be treated with antibiotics. Gonorrhea: Another bacterial infection that can cause painful urination, discharge, and in some cases, infertility. It can be treated with antibiotics. Herpes: A viral infection that can cause painful blisters or sores around the genitals, mouth, or anus. There is no cure for herpes, but antiviral medications can help manage symptoms. Human papillomavirus (HPV): A viral infection that can cause genital warts and certain types of cancer. There is no cure...

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Seborrheic Dermatitis

A common skin ailment called seborrheic dermatitis causes red, itchy, and flaky patches of skin, particularly on the chest, face, and scalp. Although the precise etiology of seborrheic dermatitis is unknown, it is believed to be connected to an excessive yeast overgrowth on the skin or an inappropriate immunological response. Seborrheic dermatitis is a persistent disorder that can be brought on by stress, some drugs, or variations in the temperature or humidity. A compromised immune system, Parkinson's disease, oily skin, or greasy hair may also make a person more prone to the disorder. Most commonly, topical treatments such corticosteroids, antifungal drugs, and medicated shampoos are used to treat seborrheic dermatitis. These drugs can help ease itching and flaking, control yeast...

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Rosacea

Rosacea is a widespread chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily impacts the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead in the middle of the face. It is distinguished by redness, flushing, visible blood vessels, and occasionally, lumps that resemble pimples. Although the precise etiology of rosacea is unknown, it is believed to be a result of a confluence of immune system, environmental, and genetic factors. Sun exposure, stress, drinking alcohol, eating hot or spicy food, and taking certain drugs are all rosacea triggers. Depending on the severity of the problem, rosacea treatment may combine medicinal and lifestyle changes. Topical creams or gels with anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as metronidazole, azelaic acid, or ivermectin, may be recommended in moderate instances. Oral antibiotics like doxycycline...

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Ringworm

Ringworm, also known as dermatophytosis, is a fungal infection of the skin that can affect different parts of the body, including the scalp, nails, feet, and groin area. It is caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes. The fungi that cause ringworm thrive in warm, humid environments and can be spread through direct contact with infected skin or objects. The infection appears as circular or ring-shaped lesions on the skin, which may be itchy, scaly, and red. In some cases, the lesions may also have raised borders and a clear center. Treatment for ringworm usually involves antifungal medications, which can be applied topically to the affected area or taken orally. Topical treatments may include creams, lotions, or powders that...

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Rhinophyma

A skin disorder called rhinophyma makes the nose swollen, bulbous, and reddish. It is a subtype of rosacea, a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that can impact the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin, among other areas of the face. Although the precise etiology of rhinophyma is not entirely understood, it is believed to be linked to a number of variables including heredity, sun exposure, and immune system abnormalities. Men experience it more frequently than women do. Rhinophyma is normally treated using a mix of medicinal and surgical methods. Topical and oral antibiotics, as well as creams to lessen irritation and redness, may be administered in the early stages. Additionally, lifestyle adjustments like avoiding triggers like alcohol, spicy meals, and extremely cold...

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Rash

Any part of the skin that becomes irritating, inflamed, or discolored is referred to as having a rash. Numerous factors, such as allergies, infections, drugs, and other medical disorders, can cause rashes. Allergic reactions to specific foods, medications, or other substances are some typical causes of rashes. Touch dermatitis, which happens when the skin comes into contact with an irritant like poison ivy or detergents, is another prevalent cause. Eczema, a persistent skin ailment that results in red, itchy skin; Infections like bacterial infections, viral infections like shingles or herpes, or fungal infections Psoriasis, a persistent autoimmune disorder that results in red, scaly skin areas. The underlying cause of a rash will determine how it should be treated. With time...

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