derm glossary

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

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin condition characterized by the development of painful, inflamed bumps and nodules that typically appear in areas where the skin rubs against itself, such as the armpits, groin, and buttocks. The exact cause of HS is not known, but it is thought to be related to clogged hair follicles and sweat glands, which can lead to the formation of abscesses, cysts, and tunnels beneath the skin. Treatment for HS typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and/or surgery, depending on the severity and extent of the condition. Treatment options may include: Antibiotics: Prescription-strength antibiotics may be prescribed to help control bacterial infections that can develop in areas affected by HS. Anti-androgen medications: Prescription...

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Herpes Zoster

Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person has chickenpox, the virus can remain dormant in the body for many years, and may reactivate later in life as shingles. Symptoms of herpes zoster may include a painful rash or blisters that appear on one side of the body, along with fever, chills, and other flu-like symptoms. The rash may be accompanied by itching, burning, or tingling sensations, and may last for several weeks. Treatment for herpes zoster typically involves antiviral medications, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, which can help to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, as well as prevent...

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Herpes Simplex

The herpes simplex virus is the source of the viral infection known as herpes simplex (HSV). Herpes simplex virus comes in two different varieties: HSV-1 and HSV-2, which commonly cause oral herpes and genital herpes, respectively. Small, uncomfortable blisters or sores that develop on or near the mouth, lips, or genitals are possible herpes simplex symptoms. There may be tingling, burning, or itchy sensations along with these blisters. Even though herpes simplex is very contagious, not everyone who has it will exhibit symptoms. Herpes simplex cannot be cured, although there are medications that can lessen the intensity and length of the symptoms. Treatment choices could be: Antiviral drugs: Antiviral drugs of prescription strength, including acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, can help...

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Hemangioma / Non-Cancerous Tumor

A benign (non-cancerous) tumor called a hemangioma develops when blood vessels expand abnormally. These growths can appear everywhere in the body, but the skin and liver are where they are most frequently found. Hemangiomas are commonly treated in dermatology according to their size, location, and overall impact on the patient's health and quality of life. The following are possible hemangioma treatments: Observation: Small, superficial hemangiomas may not need to be treated; instead, they can be watched carefully over time to make sure they don't spread or create any problems. Medication: In some circumstances, doctors may recommend drugs like beta blockers or corticosteroids to help decrease the hemangioma or lessen its symptoms. Laser therapy: The hemangioma can be shrunk or removed...

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Genital Warts

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that results in genital warts (HPV). Small, flesh-colored or gray bumps, including those on the penis, scrotum, vulva, and anus, can develop on or around the genital region. Skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity is a major source of the transmission of genital warts, which are contagious. They are normally painless and may not even manifest any symptoms; however, they occasionally may itch, burn, or feel uncomfortable. The size, location, and quantity of genital warts as well as the patient's general health and medical background will all determine the course of treatment. Treatment choices include: Creams and ointments: Warts may be treated with prescription-strength creams or ointments to help shrink their...

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Genital Ulcer

The penis, scrotum, vulva, agina, and other parts of the genital region can develop sores or lesions called genital ulcers. Genital ulcers may be brought on by a variety of medical illnesses, including autoimmune diseases, STIs, and other sexually transmitted conditions. Herpes, syphilis, and chancroid are common STIs that can result in vaginal ulcers. Additionally, autoimmune illnesses including Crohn's disease and lupus, as well as Behcet's disease, can result in genital ulcers. The underlying cause of genital ulcers will determine the precise treatment required. Depending on the specific illness, antibiotics or antiviral drugs may be administered for STIs. Immunosuppressant drugs or other therapies may be used in the treatment of autoimmune illnesses or other medical conditions. To help stop the...

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Fungal Infection

Skin infections known as "fungal infections" are caused  by a yeast or mold, which are both types of fungus. Skin, nails, and hair are just a few of the body parts that these illnesses can infect. Dermatophytes, a class of fungus that thrive in warm, damp conditions like locker rooms, public swimming pools, and shared showers, frequently cause fungal skin diseases. Athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm are some of the most prevalent fungal conditions that affect the skin. Itching, burning, redness, and skin peeling are all signs of a fungal infection. In certain instances, the infection may result in blisters or a rash in the shape of a ring. The nature and severity of a fungal infection will determine...

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Freckles

Freckles are small, flat, light-brown spots on the skin that are caused by an overproduction of melanin, the pigment that gives color to our skin, hair, and eyes. They are typically harmless and can appear anywhere on the body, but are most commonly seen on areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, arms, and chest. Freckles are often a genetic trait and tend to be more common in people with fair skin. They may also be triggered or exacerbated by exposure to the sun or other sources of ultraviolet light. While freckles are generally considered to be benign, some people may wish to have them removed for aesthetic reasons. There are several...

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Folliculitis

Hair follicle inflammation or infection can result in folliculitis, a common skin condition. Although it can affect any area of the body where hair develops, the scalp, face, neck, chest, back, and groin area are the most frequently affected areas. Infections with bacteria, viruses, or fungi, as well as irritation or injury to the hair follicles, are the usual causes of folliculitis. Small, red lumps or pustules may develop along with itchiness, burning, or pain. The underlying cause and severity of the problem will determine the particular folliculitis treatment. Topical or oral antibiotics, antifungal, antiviral, or over-the-counter topical therapies like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide may be used to treat mild to moderate cases. More radical treatment methods, including laser...

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Facial Veins

Facial veins are visible veins that appear on the face. They are typically blue or purple in color, and may appear as thin, spider-like veins or as larger, bulging veins. Facial veins can be caused by a variety of factors, including sun damage, aging, genetics, and hormonal changes. They are most commonly seen in fair-skinned individuals, and can be exacerbated by factors such as excessive alcohol consumption or exposure to extreme temperatures. Facial veins are generally considered a cosmetic concern, and do not typically pose any significant health risks. However, they can be a source of embarrassment or self-consciousness for some individuals, and may be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as rosacea. Treatment options for facial veins...

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Excessive Sweating / Hyperhidrosis

The condition known as hyperhidrosis, commonly referred to as excessive sweating, is one in which the body produces more perspiration than is required to control body temperature. It may only affect certain body parts, such the face, hands, feet, or armpits, or it may affect the entire body. Although the specific etiology of hyperhidrosis is unknown, it is believed to be related to either excessively active sweat glands or an overactive sympathetic nervous system, which controls sweat production. Visible sweating, wet clothing, and moist or clammy skin are all signs of hyperhidrosis. In addition to causing social anxiety and other forms of emotional anguish, the disease can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. The use of antiperspirants, prescription medications, or other medical...

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Eczema

A persistent skin disorder known as eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is characterized by red, itchy, and irritated skin. It can involve a specific area or the entire body.   Eczemacan be seen in people of all ages, but children are the most frequently affected. Eczema is assumed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors; however, its specific etiology is yet unknown. Eczema sufferers frequently have an overactive immune system that causes skin inflammation in response to specific triggers like stress, cold weather, or irritation. Eczema can cause a variety of different symptoms, but the most common ones are red, itchy, and scaly patches of skin that are sometimes accompanied by blisters or weeping sores. Additionally, the affected...

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Dry / Itchy Skin

A common skin condition, dry and itchy skin, can be brought on by a number of things, including underlying medical conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or thyroid disorders, as well as environmental causes like cold or dry air, hot showers or baths, and harsh soaps or detergents. Redness, flakiness, cracking, and rough areas of skin are signs of dry and itchy skin. Additionally, the skin may be prone to acquiring fine lines and wrinkles and may feel constrictive and irritated. Topical lotions, ointments, or oral drugs may be used to soothe the skin and lessen inflammation when treating dry, itchy skin. The underlying cause of the condition should also be found if possible and treated. The skin's natural moisture barrier...

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Dermatitis

Inflammation of the skin is generally referred to as dermatitis. This skin condition can be brought on by a variety of things, such as irritants, allergens, infections, and autoimmune diseases. Depending on the source and severity of the underlying condition, dermatitis symptoms can vary, but they frequently include redness, itching, and a rash. On occasion, skin blisters can also develop. Atopic dermatitis (eczema), contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis are a few examples of the several forms of dermatitis. While contact dermatitis happens when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen, atopic dermatitis is a persistent, hereditary disorder that results in dry, itchy, and irritated skin. Stasis dermatitis is a type of dermatitis that develops on...

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Dandruff

Small bits of dead skin flakes fall off the scalp and land on the hair and shoulders in dandruff, a common scalp condition. Dandruff is considered to be a form of seborrheic dermatitis, a skin disorder that mostly affects the scalp, face, and chest because of thehigh oil gland density in these particular locations. Although the precise cause of dandruff is unknown, it is believed to be related to a number of variables, including hormone imbalances, skin sensitivity, and an overgrowth of a yeast called Malassezia. Dandruff is not communicable. White or yellow flakes on the scalp and hair, itching, and occasionally redness or inflammation of the scalp are all signs of dandruff. In extreme circumstances, the flakes appear on...

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Cysts

In dermatology, cysts are noncancerous growths that can appear beneath the skin. They may appear as tiny, raised bumps or lumps on the skin and are typically packed with fluid, pus, or other substances. Epidermoid cysts, sebaceous cysts, and pilar cysts are a few of the various forms of cysts that can develop on the skin. The most prevalent type of cysts are epidermoid cysts, which are typically caused by an overabundance of skin cells. Pilar cysts are brought on by an overgrowth of cells in the hair follicle, whereas sebaceous cysts are caused by the obstruction of an oil gland or hair follicle. Virtually any place  on the body can develop cysts; but the face, neck, chest, and back...

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Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a type of skin inflammation that occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen. It can affect people of all ages and can be caused by a wide range of substances, including soaps, detergents, cosmetics, metals, plants, and chemicals. The symptoms of contact dermatitis can vary depending on the cause and severity of the reaction, but they often include redness, itching, burning, and a rash. In some cases, blisters may also form on the skin. Contact dermatitis can be either irritant or allergic. Irritant contact dermatitis occurs when the skin is exposed to a substance that damages or inflames the skin, such as harsh chemicals or repeated exposure to water. Allergic contact dermatitis...

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Cold Sores / Herpes Labialis

Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are a common viral infection that typically appear as small, fluid-filled blisters on or around the lips. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV I or II), which is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with the blister or by sharing objects such as towels, razors, or utensils. The first symptoms of a cold sore usually include tingling or itching sensations around the mouth, followed by the appearance of small, red, fluid-filled blisters. The blisters may burst and form a crust before eventually healing on their own within a week or two. Cold sores can be painful and may cause other symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes,...

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Brown / Dark Spots

On the skin, brown spots and black spots are regions of extra pigmentation that stand out as darker than the surrounding skin. Numerous factors, such as sun exposure, aging, hormonal changes, heredity, and specific medical disorders, can cause these spots to develop. Brown spots, often referred to as age spots or liver spots, are flat, brown patches that typically develop on skin that is frequently exposed to sunlight, such as the face, hands, and arms. They are more prevalent in elderly persons and are brought on by an excess of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. Contrarily, dark patches can refer to a number of hyperpigmentation conditions, such as freckles, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). PIH happens when the...

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Athlete's Foot

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, most commonly between the toes. The infection is caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes, which thrive in warm and humid environments such as the insides of shoes and socks. The symptoms of athlete's foot can vary from person to person, but they often include itching, burning, and stinging sensations; redness; and flaking or scaling of the skin. Blisters and cracked, peeling skin may also occur. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the foot, including the toenails. Athlete's foot is a common condition, especially among people who engage in sports or other activities that cause the...

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