Overview Fungal infections of the skin are often divided into 3: Infection Causative organism Dermatophytosis (Tinea) Dermatophytes – Trichophyton, Epidermophyton, Microsporum Candidiasis Candida spp. Pityriasis versicolor Malassezia furfur, Malassezia globosa

Erythema Multiforme This is a common reaction pattern of blood vessels in the dermis with secondary epidermal changes. It is an acute, self-limited Type IV hypersensitivity reaction. It manifests clinically as characteristic erythematous iris-shaped papular and vesiculo-bullous lesions (Bullseye). The…

Overview Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a non-melanoma (keratinocyte), epithelial skin cancer arising from the basal cells (small, round cells in lower layer of dermis). Is the most common malignant skin tumor in humans. More common in males (M:F ~2:1)…

Overview Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is a non-melanoma (keratinocyte), epithelial skin cancer derived from the malignant transformation of normal epidermal keratinocytes (produce keratin – horny protein that makes up skin, hair, nails). It typically appears on sun-exposed skin, and…

Pemphigus Vulgaris Pemphigus Vulgaris is a blistering skin disorder that is common in middle age (40-60 years). It has a high prevalence in the Jewish population. It is a lifelong condition. It often has mucosal involvement (>90%) and can be…

Gestational Pemphigoid (Pemphigoid gestationis) This refers to a bullous pemphigoid-like dermatosis that occurs in pregnancy, usually during the 2nd and 3rd trimesters. Aetiology is unknown, but most likely immunological. BP180 protein, which is identified in bullous pemphigoid, is also found…

Overview Bullies pemphigoid is a chronic, inflammatory, sub-epidermal, autoimmune blistering disease. It is the most common form of autoimmune sub-epidermal blistering disease. More prevalent among the elderly, occurring equally in males and females. Pathophysiology Bullous pemphigoid results from the attack…

Overview Urticaria is an inflammatory skin disorder, resulting in formation of well circumscribed, erythematous, edematous and pruritic plaques called wheals/ hives. ****It may occur with or without angioedema. Can be classified as acute (<6 weeks) or chronic (>6 weeks). Etiology…

Overview Acne vulgaris (aka ‘acne’) is a very common disorder of the pilosebaceous follicles (oil glands). It results from excess production of sebum which is related to androgen (testosterone) levels. It is related with psychological distress (including depression, anxiety, and…

Overview Psoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by raised, red, itchy, scaly plaques on the skin. It is caused by an abnormal T-cell-mediated immune response. T-cells release cytokines which leads to keratinocyte proliferation. 10-15% of cases are…