Overview Alopecia means “loss of hair“. Hair grows in small clusters of 3-4 hairs per follicle unit. Hair grows through 3 phases. Follicles can move through this process and back again based on hormonal signalling. Normally, an individual loses about…

Pityriasis versicolor Pityriasis versicolor is a superficial fungal infection caused by Malassezia. It is often asymptomatic, except for the hypopigmented/hyperpigmented patches on the skin. Versicolor means “various colors”. Malassezia produces acetic acid which affects melanocyte function. Diagnosis is clinical, but…

Dermatophyte infections are given different names depending on the location of the infection. The diagnosis is clinical. Deep infections (involving the hair and nails) are treated with oral antifungals. Dermatophytosis Area infected Term Common causative organism Foot Tinea pedis (Athletes…

Overview Common fungal skin infections include: Infection Causative organism Dermatophytosis (Tinea) Dermatophytes – Trichophyton, Epidermophyton, Microsporum Candidiasis Candida spp. Pityriasis versicolor Malassezia furfur, Malassezia globosa

Erythema multiforme 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 as erythematous iris-shaped papular and vesiculo-bullous lesions (Bullseye). The age of onset…

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

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

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…

Pemphigoid gestationis is an autoimmune disorder of the second and third trimester of pregnancy. It is characterised by itchy blisters which start on the abdomen before spreading to other body parts. Symptoms worsen during the third trimester and improve postpartum…

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