Sun-sensitizing drugs (photosensitivity) definition and facts Many common medications cause photosensitivity in some people when exposed to sunlight. Sun-sensitive or photosensitive drugs are drugs that cause a moderate to severe skin reaction that is similar to a bad sunburn when exposed to the sun (UV rays), usually the forehead, nose, hands, arms, and lips. Many...
The most effective way to treat stasis dermatitis is by controlling the disease The most effective way to treat stasis dermatitis is by controlling the disease. This can be achieved by: Wearing a compression stocking, compression dressing reduces swelling. Keeping the legs elevated while sleeping. Applying topical corticosteroid to the areas of inflammation. Taking antibiotics...
Stitches facts A picture of stitches or sutures Wounds or lacerations must be explored and thoroughly cleaned prior to closure. Stitching or suturing is considered a form of minor surgery. Suture materials vary in their composition and thickness, and the choice of the appropriate material depends upon the nature and location of the wound. Staples,...
Any abnormal change in the skin color or texture is called a rash. Rashes are generally areas of irritated or swollen skin. Many rashes are red, itchy, and painful. Some people get rashes due to allergy, some due to infection, whereas some get due to their specific genetic makeup. Here are the 24 most common...
Pityriasis rosea facts Picture of pityriasis rosea on the torso; photo courtesy of Gary W. Cole, MD, FAAD Pityriasis rosea is a skin condition that begins as a single, large pink oval-shaped patch found on the trunk of the body called the "herald patch." The herald patch is followed one to two weeks later with...
What is sun protection? Sun protection is simply guarding a body from the adverse effects of sunlight. Aside from the hazards of heat, the sun poses the danger of sunburn, which can permanently damage the skin and cause skin cancer, precancerous changes in the skin, as well as premature wrinkling and signs of aging. Exposure...
What is a furuncle vs. an abscess? The skin is the barrier between the world around you and the organs and tissues in your body. If something damages it, harmful organisms can enter it and cause problems. Furuncles and abscesses are large bumps that can appear after bacteria have entered the body through an area...
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread to the surrounding organs and cause death. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread to the surrounding organs and cause death. A sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is done in patients with melanoma to investigate the spread of the disease. SLNB is...
A doctor examines a patient’s hands for scabies.Source: Pixtal Images Facts you should know about scabies Scabies is an itchy, highly contagious skin disease caused by an infestation by the itch mite Sarcoptes scabiei. Direct skin-to-skin contact is the mode of transmission. A severe and relentless itch is the predominant symptom of scabies. Sexual contact...
What is ringworm? What is eczema? Share Your Story Ringworm and eczema both cause itchiness. Ringworm is a common fungal infection of the skin (ringworm is also termed tinea or dermatophytosis), and the different types of ringworm are named for the location of the rash on the body (for example, tinea corporis [arm and/or leg],...