Dermatology

Chapter 6


Dermatology






4 Define contact dermatitis. How do you recognize it? What are the classic causes?


Contact dermatitis is usually caused by a type IV hypersensitivity reaction, although it may be result from an irritating or toxic substance. Look for a new exposure to a classic offending agent, such as poison ivy, nickel earrings, or deodorant. The rash is well circumscribed and occurs only in the area of exposure. The skin is red and itchy and often has vesicles or bullae (Fig. 6-1; Plate 3). The causal agent should be avoided. Patch testing may determine the antigen.






7 Name the various dermatologic fungal infections


Known as dermatophytosis, tinea, and ringworm, fungal infections include the following:



Tinea corporis (body/trunk): Look for red ring-shaped lesions with raised borders that tend to clear centrally while expanding peripherally (Fig. 6-2; Plate 4).


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Figure 6-2 Tinea corporis. Red ring-shaped lesions with scaling and some central clearing. See Plate 4. (From Kliegman RM. Nelson textbook of pediatrics. 19th ed. Philadelphia: Saunders, 2011.)

Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot): Look for macerated, scaling web spaces between the toes that often itch and may be associated with thickened, distorted toenails (onychomycosis). Good foot hygiene is part of treatment.


Tinea unguium (onychomycosis): thickened, distorted nails with debris under the nail edges.


Tinea capitis (scalp): Mainly affects children (highly contagious), who have scaly patches of hair loss and may have an inflamed, boggy granuloma of the scalp (known as a kerion) that usually resolves on its own.


Tinea cruris (jock itch): More common in obese males; usually is found in the crural folds of the upper, inner thighs.











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Apr 8, 2017 | Posted by in NURSING | Comments Off on Dermatology

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