Understanding Your Skin: Key Dermatology Terms Every Patient Should Know
1. Pustule
A pustule is a small, inflamed, pus-filled blister on the skin, often caused by bacterial infection or acne.
It appears red with a white or yellow center and is a sign of inflammation.
Common in acne, folliculitis, and some infectious skin conditions.
2. Scales
Scales are flakes or dry patches made up of excess dead skin cells that shed from the skin’s surface.
They are commonly seen in conditions like psoriasis, eczema, or fungal infections.
Scaling can indicate an abnormal skin renewal process.
3. Fissure
A fissure is a deep crack or groove in the skin, often painful and extending into the dermis.
It usually results from dry, thickened skin or chronic inflammation.
Common sites include the heels, lips, and hands in eczema or psoriasis.
4. Acne Scar
Acne scars are permanent textural changes or indentations left on the skin after severe acne heals.
They can appear as pitted (atrophic), raised (hypertrophic), or discolored marks.
Treatment includes microneedling, laser therapy, or chemical peels.
5. Vitiligo
Vitiligo is an autoimmune skin condition where melanocytes (pigment cells) are destroyed, leading to white patches.
It can affect any part of the body and is usually symmetrical.
It is non-contagious but can impact psychological well-being due to its visible nature.
6. Necrosis
Necrosis refers to the premature death of skin tissue due to lack of blood flow, infection, or trauma.
The affected area may turn black, leathery, or discolored.
Urgent medical attention is required as it may lead to complications.
7. Tumor
A tumor in dermatology refers to an abnormal growth of skin cells, which can be benign or malignant.
Skin tumors include moles, lipomas, or skin cancers like melanoma.
Diagnosis requires clinical examination and sometimes a biopsy.
8. Ulcer
An ulcer is an open sore or lesion on the skin that fails to heal and may discharge fluid or blood.
It’s caused by prolonged pressure, poor circulation, or infections.
Common types include diabetic foot ulcers and pressure sores.
9. Papules
Papules are small, raised, solid bumps on the skin that are usually less than 1 cm in diameter.
They are a common feature in acne, dermatitis, and viral infections like warts.
Unlike pustules, papules do not contain pus.
10. Cyanosis
Cyanosis is a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes due to low oxygen levels in the blood.
It can be a sign of underlying cardiac or respiratory conditions.
Peripheral cyanosis is often seen in cold extremities or circulatory issues.
11. Eczema
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition causing dryness, redness, itching, and flaking.
It often affects the face, hands, and flexural areas like elbows and knees.
Triggers include allergens, stress, weather changes, and irritants.
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