SKIN CONDITIONS
A skin condition, also known as a cutaneous condition, is any medical condition affecting the integumentary system—the organ system enclosing the body and including skin, nails, and related muscles and glands. The primary function of this system is as a barrier against the external environment.
Conditions of the human integumentary system constitute a broad spectrum of diseases, also known as dermatoses, as well as many non-pathologic states (like, in certain circumstances, melanonychia and racquet nails). While only a small number of skin diseases account for most visits to the physician, thousands of skin condition descriptions. Classification of these conditions often presents many nosological challenges since underlying causes and pathogenetic are often unknown. Therefore, most current textbooks present a classification based on location (for example, conditions of the mucous membrane), morphology (chronic blistering conditions), and (skin conditions resulting from physical factors).
Clinically, the diagnosis of any particular skin condition begins by gathering pertinent information about the presenting skin lesion(s), including location (arms, head, legs); symptoms (pruritus, pain); duration (acute or chronic); arrangement (solitary, generalized, annular, linear); morphology (macules, papules, vesicles); and color (red). Some diagnoses may also require a skin biopsy yielding histologic information correlate with the clinical presentation and laboratory data. In addition, the introduction of cutaneous ultrasound has allowed the detection of cutaneous tumors, inflammatory processes, and skin diseases.
A layer of skin involved
The skin weighs an average of 4 kg (8.8 lb) and covers an area of 2 m2 (22 sq ft), defined by three distinct layers: the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue. The two main types of human skin are glabrous skin, the nonhairy skin on the palms and soles (also referred to as the "palmoplantar" surfaces), and hair-bearing skin. Within the latter type, hairs in structures called pilosebaceous units have a hair follicle, sebaceous gland, and associated arrector pili muscle. The epidermis, hair, and glands in the embryo are from the ectoderm, chemically influenced by the underlying mesoderm that forms the dermis and subcutaneous tissues.
Epidermis
Main article: Epidermis (skin)
The epidermis is the most superficial layer of skin, a squamous epithelium with several strata: the stratum corneum, stratum lucidum, stratum granulosum, stratum spinosum, and stratum basale. Nourishment is provided to these layers via diffusion from the dermis since the epidermis lacks a direct blood supply. The epidermis contains four cell types: keratinocytes, melanocytes, Langerhans cells, and Merkel cells. Keratinocytes are the primary component of these, constituting roughly 95% of the epidermis. This stratified squamous epithelium is present by cell division within the stratum basale, slowly differentiating cells displaced outwards through the stratum spinosum to the stratum corneum, where cells continually shed from the surface. In normal skin, the production rate equals the loss rate; a cell needs about two weeks to migrate from the basal cell layer to the top of the granular cell layer and an additional two weeks to cross the stratum corneum.
Dermis
Main article: Dermis
The dermis is the layer of skin between the epidermis and subcutaneous tissue and comprises two sections, the papillary dermis and the reticular dermis. The superficial papillary dermis interdigitates with the overlying rete ridges of the epidermis, between which the two layers interact through the basement membrane zone. Structural components of the dermis are collagen, elastic fibers, and ground substance, also called extra fibrillar matrix. Within these components are the pilosebaceous units, arrector pili muscles, and the eccrine and apocrine glands. In addition, the dermis contains two vascular networks that run parallel to the skin surface—one superficial and one deep plexus—which connect by vertical communicating vessels. The function of blood vessels within the dermis is fourfold: to supply nutrition, regulate temperature, modulate inflammation, and participate in wound healing.
Subcutaneous tissue
Main article: Subcutaneous tissue
The subcutaneous tissue is a layer of fat between the dermis and underlying fascia. This tissue may divide into two components, the actual fatty layer, or panniculus adiposis, and a deeper vestigial layer of muscle, the Panniculus Carnosus. The main cellular component of this tissue is the adipocyte or fat cell. The structure of this tissue is composed of septal (i.e., linear strands) and lobular compartments, which differ in microscopic appearance. Functionally, the subcutaneous fat insulates the body, absorbs trauma, and serves as a reserve energy source.
Diseases of the skin
For a list, see List of skin conditions.
Diseases of the skin include skin infections and skin neoplasms (including skin cancer).
History
See also: History of dermatology.
In 1572, Geronimo Mercuriali of Forlì, Italy, completed De Morbis Cutaneous ('On the diseases of the skin'). It is considered the first scientific work dedicated to dermatology.
Diagnoses
The physical examination of the skin and its appendages, as well as the mucous membranes, forms the cornerstone of an accurate diagnosis of cutaneous conditions. Most of these conditions present cutaneous surface changes, term "lesions," which have more or less distinct characteristics. Often proper examination will lead the physician to obtain appropriate historical information and laboratory tests that can confirm the diagnosis. Upon examination, the important clinical observations are the (1) morphology, (2) configuration, and (3) distribution of the lesion(s). Regarding morphology, the initial lesion characterizes a condition known as the "primary lesion," and identifying such lesions is the essential aspect of the cutaneous examination. Over time, these primary lesions may continue to develop or be modified by regression or trauma, producing "secondary lesions" However, the lack of standardization of basic dermatologic terminology has been one of the principal barriers to successful communication among physicians in describing cutaneous findings. Nevertheless, some commonly accepted terms describe the macroscopic morphology, configuration, and distribution of skin lesions, which are listed below.
VITILIGO
Vitiligo is a skin condition characterized by loss of pigmentation in patches on the skin. The exact cause of vitiligo has yet to be fully understood. However, it is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system attacks and destroys melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing the pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes.
Vitiligo can affect people of any age, gender, or ethnicity, but it is more common in people with darker skin. It can occur anywhere on the body, and the patches can vary in size and shape. The condition is not contagious and does not cause physical harm, but it can have significant psychological and emotional effects, particularly in people with more extensive involvement.
There is currently no cure for vitiligo, but there are treatments that can help to reduce the appearance of the patches and slow the progression of the disease. These may include topical creams and ointments, light therapy, oral medications, and surgery. The treatment choice will depend on the severity and extent of the condition and the individual's overall health and personal preferences.
THE CURE
IS NOT TATTOO
The Dead Sea has long been known for its therapeutic properties, and it is a natural treatment for skin conditions such as psoriasis and vitiligo.
Dead Sea treatment for vitiligo involves exposing the affected skin to the sun and the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea, which has a very high salt and mineral content. This therapy has several benefits for people with vitiligo, including:
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Repigmentation: The minerals and nutrients in the Dead Sea water may help to stimulate the growth of new melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment in the skin.
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Exfoliation: The salt in the Dead Sea water can help remove dead skin cells and promote the growth of new, healthy skin growth.
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Immune system regulation: The Dead Sea minerals help balance the immune system, which is often overactive in people with vitiligo.
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Dead Sea treatment for vitiligo typically involves soaking in the waters of the Dead Sea for some time, usually several days or weeks. The vitiligo treatment takes place at a specialized center or spa, but visiting the Dead Sea in person is more efficient and effective.
While Dead Sea treatment for vitiligo is generally considered safe, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before trying new therapies, mainly if the patient has underlying health conditions or is taking medications. Additionally, protecting the skin from sun damage during and after treatment is essential, as excessive sun exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer.