The identification Identification Defense Mechanisms and classification of skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions lesions in a patient are important steps in the diagnosis of any skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions disorder. Primary lesions represent the initial presentation Presentation The position or orientation of the fetus at near term or during obstetric labor, determined by its relation to the spine of the mother and the birth canal. The normal position is a vertical, cephalic presentation with the fetal vertex flexed on the neck. Normal and Abnormal Labor of the disease process. Secondary lesions develop from irritated or manipulated primary lesions, and/or disease progression. Along with history, a comprehensive examination of the skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions, appendages, and mucous membranes is required to differentiate between conditions. The key features noted during examination include the type, morphology, size, color, shape, arrangement, and distribution of the presenting lesions. At times, diagnostic procedures may be necessary.
Last updated: 29 Nov, 2021
Hyperpigmented café-au-lait macules in a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1 Type 1 Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Image: “ Breast cancer Breast cancer Breast cancer is a disease characterized by malignant transformation of the epithelial cells of the breast. Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer and 2nd most common cause of cancer-related death among women. Breast Cancer associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 Type 1 Spinal Muscular Atrophy: A case series and review of the literature” by Khalil J, Afif M, Elkacemi H, Benoulaid M, Kebdani T, Benjaafar N. License: CC BY 4.0A patch Patch Nonpalpable lesion > 1 cm in diameter Generalized and Localized Rashes of vitiligo Vitiligo Vitiligo is the most common depigmenting disorder and is caused by the destruction of melanocytes. Patients present with hypo- or depigmented macules or patches which often occur on the face, hands, knees, and/or genitalia. Vitiligo in a person with dark skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions
Image: “ Vitiligo Vitiligo Vitiligo is the most common depigmenting disorder and is caused by the destruction of melanocytes. Patients present with hypo- or depigmented macules or patches which often occur on the face, hands, knees, and/or genitalia. Vitiligo and the melanocyte reservoir Reservoir Animate or inanimate sources which normally harbor disease-causing organisms and thus serve as potential sources of disease outbreaks. Reservoirs are distinguished from vectors (disease vectors) and carriers, which are agents of disease transmission rather than continuing sources of potential disease outbreaks. Humans may serve both as disease reservoirs and carriers. Escherichia coli” by Falabella, R. License: CC BY 2.0Hyperpigmentation Hyperpigmentation Excessive pigmentation of the skin, usually as a result of increased epidermal or dermal melanin pigmentation, hypermelanosis. Hyperpigmentation can be localized or generalized. The condition may arise from exposure to light, chemicals or other substances, or from a primary metabolic imbalance. Malassezia Fungi on the cheek of a patient with melasma Melasma Melasma is a benign skin condition characterized by hyperpigmentation of sun-exposed regions due to excess melanin production and deposition. The condition mainly affects women during their reproductive years, particularly those with darker skin tones. Melasma
Image: “A study comparing chemical peeling using modified Jessner’s solution and 15% trichloroacetic acid versus 15% trichloroacetic acid in the treatment of melasma Melasma Melasma is a benign skin condition characterized by hyperpigmentation of sun-exposed regions due to excess melanin production and deposition. The condition mainly affects women during their reproductive years, particularly those with darker skin tones. Melasma” by Safoury OS, Zaki NM, El Nabarawy EA, Farag EA. License: CC BY 2.0Seborrheic keratosis Seborrheic keratosis Seborrheic keratosis (SK) is the most common benign epithelial cutaneous neoplasm. The condition consists of immature keratinocytes. Seborrheic keratosis is the most common benign skin tumor in middle-aged and elderly adults and presents as a sharply demarcated, exophytic, skin lesion that may be tan or black and has a “stuck-on” appearance. Seborrheic Keratosis
Image by Jeremy Greer, MD (Lecturio).Two papules representing a basal cell Basal Cell Erythema Multiforme carcinoma
Image: “ Photodynamic Therapy Photodynamic Therapy Actinic Keratosis and Non- melanoma Melanoma Melanoma is a malignant tumor arising from melanocytes, the melanin-producing cells of the epidermis. These tumors are most common in fair-skinned individuals with a history of excessive sun exposure and sunburns. Melanoma Skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions Cancer” by Cancers. License: CC BY 4.0, cropped by Lecturio.Severe plaque psoriasis Psoriasis Psoriasis is a common T-cell-mediated inflammatory skin condition. The etiology is unknown, but is thought to be due to genetic inheritance and environmental triggers. There are 4 major subtypes, with the most common form being chronic plaque psoriasis. Psoriasis
Image: “ Psoriasis Psoriasis Psoriasis is a common T-cell-mediated inflammatory skin condition. The etiology is unknown, but is thought to be due to genetic inheritance and environmental triggers. There are 4 major subtypes, with the most common form being chronic plaque psoriasis. Psoriasis manum” by George Henry Fox. License: Public DomainNeurofibromas
Image: “ Breast cancer Breast cancer Breast cancer is a disease characterized by malignant transformation of the epithelial cells of the breast. Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer and 2nd most common cause of cancer-related death among women. Breast Cancer associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 Type 1 Spinal Muscular Atrophy: A case series and review of the literature” by Khalil J, Afif M, Elkacemi H, Benoulaid M, Kebdani T, Benjaafar N. License: CC BY 4.0, cropped by Lecturio.Vesicles Vesicles Female Genitourinary Examination caused by herpes simplex Herpes Simplex A group of acute infections caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 or type 2 that is characterized by the development of one or more small fluid-filled vesicles with a raised erythematous base on the skin or mucous membrane. It occurs as a primary infection or recurs due to a reactivation of a latent infection. Congenital TORCH Infections virus Virus Viruses are infectious, obligate intracellular parasites composed of a nucleic acid core surrounded by a protein capsid. Viruses can be either naked (non-enveloped) or enveloped. The classification of viruses is complex and based on many factors, including type and structure of the nucleoid and capsid, the presence of an envelope, the replication cycle, and the host range. Virology
Image: “Transplant biology at a crossroads” by Sedwick C. License: CC BY 4.0, cropped by Lecturio.Cutaneous findings in
bullous pemphigoid
Bullous pemphigoid
Bullous pemphigoid and pemphigus vulgaris are two different blistering autoimmune diseases. In bullous pemphigoid, autoantibodies attack the hemidesmosomes, which connect epidermal keratinocytes to the basement membrane. This attack results in large, tense subepidermal blisters.
Bullous Pemphigoid and Pemphigus Vulgaris:
Multiple large, tense
vesicles
Vesicles
Female Genitourinary Examination and
bullae
Bullae
Erythema Multiforme in the
groin
Groin
The external junctural region between the lower part of the abdomen and the thigh.
Male Genitourinary Examination on normal to mildly erythematous
skin
Skin
The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue.
Skin: Structure and Functions
Urticaria Urticaria Urticaria is raised, well-circumscribed areas (wheals) of edema (swelling) and erythema (redness) involving the dermis and epidermis with associated pruritus (itch). Urticaria is not a single disease but rather is a reaction pattern representing cutaneous mast cell degranulation. Urticaria (Hives)
Image: “Urticarial Vasculitis Vasculitis Inflammation of any one of the blood vessels, including the arteries; veins; and rest of the vasculature system in the body. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in a Teenage Girl” by McGuffin A, Vaughan A, Wolford J. License: CC BY 3.0Bacterial folliculitis on the lower leg Leg The lower leg, or just “leg” in anatomical terms, is the part of the lower limb between the knee and the ankle joint. The bony structure is composed of the tibia and fibula bones, and the muscles of the leg are grouped into the anterior, lateral, and posterior compartments by extensions of fascia. Leg: Anatomy presenting as follicular pustules
Image: “Folliculitis on lower leg Leg The lower leg, or just “leg” in anatomical terms, is the part of the lower limb between the knee and the ankle joint. The bony structure is composed of the tibia and fibula bones, and the muscles of the leg are grouped into the anterior, lateral, and posterior compartments by extensions of fascia. Leg: Anatomy” by Da pacem Domine. License: Public Domain
Nose
Nose
The nose is the human body’s primary organ of smell and functions as part of the upper respiratory system. The nose may be best known for inhaling oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide, but it also contributes to other important functions, such as tasting. The anatomy of the nose can be divided into the external nose and the nasal cavity.
Nose and Nasal Cavity: Anatomy
telangiectasias
Telangiectasias
Ataxia-telangiectasia:
a:
Telangiectasias
Telangiectasias
Ataxia-telangiectasia (arrows)
b: After treatment with cautery
Petechiae/purpura on the lower limb seen in Henoch-Schöenlein purpura
Image: “ Henoch-Schönlein purpura Henoch-Schönlein Purpura Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP), also known as immunoglobulin A vasculitis, is an autoimmune small-vessel vasculitis that typically presents as a tetrad of abdominal pain, arthralgia, hematuria, and purpuric rash. Henoch-Schönlein Purpura in an older man presenting as rectal bleeding and IgA IgA Represents 15-20% of the human serum immunoglobulins, mostly as the 4-chain polymer in humans or dimer in other mammals. Secretory iga is the main immunoglobulin in secretions. Immunoglobulins: Types and Functions mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis: A case report” by Cheungpasitporn W, Jirajariyavej T, Howarth CB, Rosen RM. License: CC BY 2.0A general physical examination as well as a focused dermatological examination should be performed:
Skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions features and commonly associated skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions conditions and/or lesions to consider:
Different primary
skin
Skin
The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue.
Skin: Structure and Functions lesions:
A
macule
Macule
Nonpalpable lesion < 1 cm in diameter
Generalized and Localized Rashes is a flat ≤ 1 cm non-palpable
skin
Skin
The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue.
Skin: Structure and Functions lesion.
A
papule
Papule
Elevated lesion < 1 cm in diameter
Generalized and Localized Rashes is a raised ≤ 1 cm palpable
skin
Skin
The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue.
Skin: Structure and Functions lesion.
A
nodule
Nodule
Chalazion is a large 1–5 cm firm raised lesion, usually extending into the
dermis
Dermis
A layer of vascularized connective tissue underneath the epidermis. The surface of the dermis contains innervated papillae. Embedded in or beneath the dermis are sweat glands; hair follicles; and sebaceous glands.
Skin: Structure and Functions and
subcutaneous tissue
Subcutaneous tissue
Loose connective tissue lying under the dermis, which binds skin loosely to subjacent tissues. It may contain a pad of adipocytes, which vary in number according to the area of the body and vary in size according to the nutritional state.
Soft Tissue Abscess.
A plaque is a raised > 1 cm
skin
Skin
The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue.
Skin: Structure and Functions lesion with palpable surface change as it arises from the
epidermis
Epidermis
The external, nonvascular layer of the skin. It is made up, from within outward, of five layers of epithelium: (1) basal layer (stratum basale epidermidis); (2) spinous layer (stratum spinosum epidermidis); (3) granular layer (stratum granulosum epidermidis); (4) clear layer (stratum lucidum epidermidis); and (5) horny layer (stratum corneum epidermidis).
Skin: Structure and Functions.
A vesicle is a small ≤ 1 cm fluid-containing
blister
Blister
Bullous Pemphigoid and Pemphigus Vulgaris while a
bulla
Bulla
Blister filled with fluid, > 1 cm diameter
Generalized and Localized Rashes is a large > 1 cm clear fluid-containing
blister
Blister
Bullous Pemphigoid and Pemphigus Vulgaris.