Common Skin Problems

Common Skin Problems

Acne Vulgaris

Snapshot Other common terms: Acne vulgaris, pimples, zits, whiteheads, blackheads ICD-10 classification: L70.0 Prevalence: Very common; 95-100% of adolescent boys, 83-85% of adolescent girls Causes: Oil, dirt and bacteria build up in the skin. Family history, sweating, stress, certain cosmetics, hormonal changes and certain medications are among the causes of acne. Recent studies have shown that foods (including fatty foods, chocolate and other dairy) do not play a role in causing acne. Symptoms: Blackheads, whiteheads and inflammatory papules and pustules on the skin, most commonly on the face and shoulders,…
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Atopic Dermatitis

Snapshot Other common terms: AD, atopic eczema, eczema ICD-10 classification:L20.0, L30.0 Prevalance: Varies between populations from 2-20% of total population Symptoms: Blackheads, whiteheads and inflammatory papules and pustules on the skin, most commonly on the face and shoulders, but can occur anywhere. Severe acne can causes scarring of the skin. Treatments/cures: A range of over the counter and prescription medications. Antibiotics and hormonal therapies in moderate-severe cases. Chemical skin peeling, scar and cyst removal or photodynamic therapy in very severe cases. Differential diagnosis: Allergic reactions, seborrheic dermatitis Atopic Dermatitis Atopic…
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Polymorphic Light Eruption (PLE)

Snapshot Other common terms: Polymorphic Light Eruption, PLE, PMLE, sun sickness, sun allergy ICD-10 classification: 56.4 Prevalence: Between 5-20% reported in fair skinned populations, but can occur in any skin type Causes: Exact cause unknown; believed to be delayed hypersensitivity to sunlight. Symptoms: Non-scarring, itchy or burning, red papules, vesicles or plaques appear on sun-exposed skin 30 minutes to several hours following exposure to sunlight. Treatments/cures: Sun avoidance to prevent disease onset, including broad spectrum sunscreens. Topical steroids and phototherapy can be used. Differential diagnosis: Solar urticaria, erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP),…
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Psoriasis

Snapshot Other common terms: None ICD-10 classification: L40 Prevalence: Common; 2-3% of the global population, estimated 125 million affected globally Causes: Thought to be a genetic disease. Symptomatic onset can be due to a range of environmental factor such as infections, stress, skin trauma and certain medications. Symptoms: Reoccurring outbreaks of distinct red areas of skin, covered by silvery-white flaky skin. Five different sub-types have their own specific symptoms. Treatments/cures: Treatments vary according to psoriasis type and location. Topical emollients and steroids are often used, with immunosuppressants and phototherapy used…
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Rosacea

Snapshot Other common terms: Acne rosacea ICD-10 classification: L71 Prevalence: Common, more common in Caucasian population. Approx 14 million Americans are affected by rosacea Causes: Sunlight and UV, certain food and drinks (including alcohol), stress, environmental factors Symptoms: Frequent or prolonged flushing/blushing; spider veins (usually on the nose); papules and pustules (acne like appearance); facial burning and stinging; swelling of facial areas; enlargement of sebaceous glands giving the nose a bulbous appearance; dry and flaky facial skin. Treatments/cures: No known cure. Avoidance of stimulants is key. Topical steroids and oral…
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Seborrheic dermatitis (SD)

Snapshot Other common terms: SD, seborrhoeic dermatitis eczema, cradle cap ICD-10 classification: L21 Prevalence: Very common; affects approximately 3-5% of the global population Causes: Exact cause is unknown. Environmental factors contribute to the onset of symptoms. Symptoms: Reddish or pink patches of skin, accompanied by greasy, yellowish flakes or scales. May become inflamed, itchy or infected with scratching Treatments/cures: Anti-inflammatory agents, topical steroids, keratolytic agents and antifungals. Differential diagnosis: Atopic dermatitis Seborrheic Dermatitis Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a form of eczema and a common, inflammatory skin disorder that affects infants…
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