Common Skin Diseases and Conditions
ACNE : Acne is a common skin condition characterised by the blockage of hair follicles beneath the skin due to the accumulation of oil, dead skin cells, or bacteria. This inflammatory disorder involves the sebaceous glands, connected to hair follicles, leading to the formation of pimples and whiteheads. While its primary impact is on the face, it can also affect the chest and shoulders.
Psoriasis : Psoriasis is a chronic skin disorder marked by persistent inflammation and abnormal cell growth. Characteristic features include erythematous plaques covered with silvery scales, most commonly found on extensor surfaces, the scalp, and the lumbosacral area. It is classified into type 1 (occurring before 40 years) and type 2 (manifesting after 40 years) based on age of onset. While the cause remains unknown, psoriasis is considered an autoimmune disease involving T-lymphocytes.
Warts : These are harmless, rough bumps that form on the skin, arising from the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) at the site of skin breaks or cuts. This condition is contagious and can spread directly through contact, whether person to person or person to object. Children are particularly susceptible to this infection due to the frequent occurrence of skin breaks in their active lifestyles.
Atopic Dermatitis : Atopic dermatitis (AD), a form of eczema, stands as the most widespread chronic inflammatory skin condition. It arises from a combination of environmental and genetic factors, resulting in abnormalities in both the epidermis and the immune system. Marked by itchy, inflamed, and dry skin, this condition can affect individuals of any age but is particularly prevalent among children.
Eczema : A collection of conditions that induce inflammation, irritation, and frequently itchy skin, including atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis.
Dermatitis encompasses various skin inflammations or irritations, typically presenting as a rash or itchy, dry skin. This condition can result from various factors and may lead to issues such as blistering, oozing, crusting, or flaking. The three most common forms of this ailment are atopic (eczema), seborrheic, and contact dermatitis.
Vitiligo : Vitiligo is a prevalent skin disorder marked by the loss of skin colour in patches, resulting from the absence of melanocytes in the epidermis. The precise cause remains unknown, although some researchers suggest it may stem from an autoimmune disorder. In this scenario, the body’s immune system targets the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour, leading to their dysfunction.
Apart from these above mentioned common skin diseases, a wide range of cosmetic conditions are addressed with utmost care and expertise
- Acne Vulgaris
- Hyperpigmentation
- Ageing-related concerns (wrinkles, fine lines, sagging skin)
- Hair Loss
Faq’s
How many types of skin diseases are there?
Common skin diseases include acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer, and warts. These conditions can result from factors such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, allergies, autoimmune reactions, parasites, contact with irritants or allergens, medications, and genetics. Skin diseases vary in severity, and treatment often depends on the underlying cause.
How to cure skin disease?
Skin diseases are treated based on their type and severity, using options like laser skin resurfacing, surgery, and phototherapy. Common treatments include anti-infective agents, moisturizers, antihistamines, steroids, and UVB therapy. Some infections resolve on their own, while others may need medication or drainage procedures.
How to prevent skin infections?
To prevent skin infections, wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based gel, especially after contact with contaminated items or people. Keep wounds clean and covered with sterile bandages, and apply petroleum jelly to protect them. Avoid sharing personal items like towels or razors, and steer clear of skin-to-skin contact with infected individuals. Shower regularly, especially after sports, and wash clothes frequently. Use sun protection, such as broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, and wear protective clothing like hats and sunglasses.
What are the most common dermatology conditions?
Common dermatology conditions include acne, caused by blocked follicles; eczema, which leads to dry, itchy skin; and psoriasis, resulting in red, scaly patches. Rosacea causes flushed, thick skin with pimples, often on the face, while moles can change over time and should be checked annually. Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that spreads quickly, often affecting the legs, and hair loss is commonly due to hereditary factors, known as androgenetic alopecia.
What are common skin infections?
Common skin infections are caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Bacterial infections include cellulitis, impetigo, and staph infections. Viral infections include shingles, warts, and herpes. Fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot and tinea, are also common, as are yeast infections like diaper rash. Parasitic infections include lice and scabies.
What are the viral skin infections?
Viral skin infections, caused by viruses like varicella-zoster, HPV, and parvovirus, can lead to blisters, rashes, or lesions. Common infections, including chickenpox, shingles, warts, measles, and rubella, can be contagious, spreading through direct contact or airborne particles. Treatment typically focuses on managing symptoms and supporting the immune system, with many cases resolving on their own. However, medical care is often necessary, especially for more severe infections.
How to identify skin problems?
Skin problems are diagnosed by examining the skin and considering symptoms through tests such as a skin culture to identify infections, a biopsy to examine tissue under a microscope, patch testing for allergies, black light exams for pigment issues, dermoscopy for skin lesions, and blood tests for certain diseases.