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: Nov 29, 2021
A patch of vitiligo in a person with dark skin
Image: “Vitiligo and the melanocyte reservoir” by Falabella, R. License: CC BY 2.0Hyperpigmentation on the cheek of a patient with 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” by Safoury OS, Zaki NM, El Nabarawy EA, Farag EA. License: CC BY 2.0Severe plaque psoriasis
Image: “Psoriasis manum” by George Henry Fox. License: Public DomainBacterial folliculitis on the lower leg presenting as follicular pustules
Image: “Folliculitis on lower leg” by Da pacem Domine. License: Public DomainA 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 lesions:
A macule is a flat ≤ 1 cm non-palpable skin lesion.
A papule is a raised ≤ 1 cm palpable skin lesion.
A nodule is a large 1–5 cm firm raised lesion, usually extending into the dermis and subcutaneous tissue.
A plaque is a raised > 1 cm skin lesion with palpable surface change as it arises from the epidermis.
A vesicle is a small ≤ 1 cm fluid-containing blister while a bulla is a large > 1 cm clear fluid-containing blister.