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Human Diseases A Systemic Approach Sixth Edition Mary Lou Mulvihill Mark Zelman Paul Holdaway Elaine Tompary Jill Raymond Chapter 17 Diseases of the Skin Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Chapter 17 Diseases of the Skin Multimedia Asset Directory Slide 53 Slide 64 Slide 78 Slide 96 Slide 98 Eczema Skin Cancer Acne Decubitus Ulcer Pressure Ulcer Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Functions of the Skin Protective wrap, regulates temperature, senses pain, keeps substances and microorganisms from entering the body, and provides a shield from the harmful effects of the sun Indicates malfunction within the body through color changes – Cyanosis, a blue coloration of the skin in the extremities signals a lack of oxygen, indicating a cardiovascular or pulmonary problem. – Jaundice indicates liver disease, bile obstruction, or hemolysis of red blood cells. – Abnormal redness accompanies polycythemia, carbon monoxide poisoning, and fever. – Pallor, or whitening of the skin, may indicate anemia. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Figure 17-1: Structure of the skin. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Structure of the Skin Epidermis The outermost layer of the skin – Consists of stratified or layered squamous epithelium. – Stratum corneum contains keratin, a tough, fibrous protein produced by cells called keratinocytes and protects the skin from harmful substances. – At the bottom of the epidermis are the melanocytes, or the cells that produce melanin, the dark pigment of the skin that protects the body from the harmful rays of the sun. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Structure of the Skin Dermis and Subcutaneous Tissue The dermis or “true skin” lies below the epidermis. – Composed of connective tissue that supports blood and lymph vessels, elastic fibers, nerves, hair follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous or oil glands. The subcutaneous tissue lies under the dermis and connects the skin to underlying structures. – Adipose tissue or fat cells are in the subcutaneous tissue and help insulate the body from heat and cold. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Skin Diseases Identified and classified according to characteristic lesions – Revealing characteristics of skin lesions include the size, shape, color, and location as well as the presence or absence of other signs and symptoms. – Pruritis (itching), edema (swelling), erythema (redness), and inflammation usually accompany lesions and are helpful in making a diagnosis. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Figure 17-2: Skin signs are objective evidence of an illness or disorder. They can be seen, measured, or felt. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Lesions Vesicles: Blisterlike eruptions Bullae: Large fluid-containing lesions Pustules: Lesions containing pus Nodules: Also known as tumors, lesions that are hard to the touch Macular: flat lesions Papular: raised lesions Erythematous: An area of skin reddened by congested blood vessels resulting from injury or inflammation Pruritus: itching, accompanies many skin diseases Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Infectious Skin Diseases Bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites may cause infections of the skin. Normal microbes that reside on the skin cause the most common skin infections. Infections from less common microbes may develop in high-risk individuals (immunocompromised or diabetic individuals), and those who reside in nursing homes and hospitals. Most skin infections are not serious unless systemic involvement occurs. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Impetigo Acute, contagious skin infection common in children Caused by streptococci and staphylococci carried in the nose that is passed to the skin. The face and hands are most frequently affected. Erythema develops and oozing vesicles and pustules form. Fever and enlarged lymph nodes may accompany the infection. Treatment: The lesions should be washed with soap and water, kept dry, and exposed to air. Antibiotic ointment may be used, and oral antibiotics are sometimes prescribed to treat the infection systemically. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Erysipelas An inflammatory skin infection caused by Streptococci Infections appear on the face, arm, or leg. Infection may begin with broken skin. A shiny, swollen, and red rash may develop initially and is often accompanied by small blisters. The erythematous rash is hot to touch and tender. Fever and chills develop when the infection is severe. Mild erysipelas is self-limiting; however, when the infection is severe, treatment with antibiotics is required. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Cellulitis A spreading infection of the skin that is most often caused by Streptococci The infection is common on the legs and begins with skin damage. The involved area is generally swollen, red, and tender. Symptoms of the infection may include fever and chills. Prompt treatment prevents the spread of the infection to the blood and vital organs. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Figure 17-3: Cellulitis indicated by redness and swelling around the eye. (Courtesy of the CDC / Dr. Thomas F. Sellers / Emory University, 1963) Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Folliculitis An inflammation of the hair follicles caused by infection with Staphylococci A small number of pustules develop in the hair follicle. Commonly occurs in young men and affects thighs, buttocks, beard, and scalp Treatment: daily cleansing with an antiseptic soap. Severe cases require treatment with oral antibiotics. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Figure 17-4: The lesions of folliculitis are pustules surrounded by areas of erythema. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Furuncles and Carbuncles Furuncles – Boils; large, tender, swollen raised lesions caused by Staphylococci. – The infection appears in hair follicles located on the face, neck, breasts, or buttocks. The core of the furuncle become necrotic and liquefies, forming pus. Carbuncles – Clusters of boils – These lesions arise in a cluster of hair follicles. Carbuncles develop and heal more slowly than boils. – They appear mostly in men and are commonly located on the back of the neck. Treatment: moist heat, antiseptic skin cleansing, topical or oral antibiotics and incision and drainage Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Figure 17-5: A furuncle (or boil) is a deep, red, painful nodule. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Viral Skin Infections Herpes Herpes is a large family of viruses that cause clusters of fluid-filled vesicles on the skin. The virus remains in the body for life. Herpes Simplex Type I Herpes Simplex Type II Herpes Varicella-Zoster Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Herpes Simplex Type I and Type II Herpes simplex type I – Causes cold sores or fever blisters – The virus may be harbored in the body for a long time with no ill effect, but suddenly it becomes active and the infection develops. – Triggers: low resistance to infection, stress, respiratory infections, common cold, menstruation sunburn Treatment: antiviral drugs are used, and antibiotics are sometimes applied topically to treat secondary bacterial invasion. Herpes simplex type II – Causes genital herpes Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Figure 17-6: Typical cold sores or fever blisters caused by the virus herpes simplex. (Courtesy of the CDC / Dr. Herrman, 1964.) Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Herpes Varicella-Zoster Causes chicken pox, one of the most common childhood infectious diseases The virus can be transmitted by airborne particles or by direct contact. – A rash forms over the face, trunk, and extremities. The rash spots develop into vesicles in a few days causing intense pruritis. The vesicles break, dry, and become crusty. Treatment is usually symptomatic. If an adult develops limited immunity to Herpes varicella- zoster the virus may lie dormant for years after recovery from chicken pox. The virus may flare up during periods of stress, diseases, trauma, or immunosuppression causing painful vesicles called shingles. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Warts Verucca vulgaris are caused by viruses affecting the keratinocytes of the skin, causing them to proliferate. A benign neoplasm develops with a rough keratinized surface. Most common in children and young adults, developing particularly on the hands. They are often multiple and are contagious, being spread by scratching. – Warts sometimes disappear spontaneously, but only a physician via surgery, cryosurgery, or laser can remove them. If the virus remains in the body, the warts tend to recur. Plantar warts form on the soles of the feet – Grow inward – Pressure on the soles of the feet makes them very painful, and they are often difficult to remove permanently. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Figure 17-7: The common wart is a lesion of the skin caused by a virus. It commonly appears as a raised, dome-shaped lesion. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Fungal Skin Infections Fungi, or dermatophytes, that infect the skin tend to live on the dead, top layer of the skin. Fungal infections may or may not cause symptoms. Minor infections cause mild irritation and swelling. Serious infections generally cause itching, swelling, blisters, and severe scales. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Tinea Tinea, or ringworm, is caused by many different fungi. Classified by its location on the body Fungi particularly reside in warm moist areas of the body, but may also occur with hairy skin on the head, groin, arms, and legs. Symptoms range from mild scales or cracking skin, to painful raw rashes. Treatment includes keeping the affected area clean and dry, and application of topical antifungal creams, powders, and solutions. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Tinea Corporis and Tinea Pedis Body ringworm affects smooth areas of skin on the arms, legs, and body. Characterized by a pink to reddish rash that sometimes forms round patches with clear areas in the center Scales and fissures on the soles of the feet and between the toes characterize tinea pedis or athlete’s foot A foul odor usually accompanies the lesions. Tinea pedis is highly contagious and is spread by direct contact with contaminated surfaces. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Tinea Cruris Jock itch generally affects the groin and upper and inner thighs. The fungi cause red, ring-like areas with blisters Tinea cruris develops more frequently during warm weather. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Tinea Capitis Scalp ringworm is highly contagious and most commonly occurs in children. This fungus may produce a mild scaly rash or a patch of hair loss without a rash. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Tinea Unguium Nail fungus affects nails, typically toenails. This fungus is difficult to treat because it hides under the nail. The infection begins at the nail tips causing white patches, eventually turning the nail brown. The nail thickens and cracks. If left untreated the fungus may destroy the entire nail, and tends to spread to other nails. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Tinea Barbae Causes barber’s itch The fungus affects bearded areas of the face and neck. This fungus may produce deep, inflammatory pustules and crusting around hairs. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Table 17-1: Ringworm or Tinea Classification and Symptoms Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Figure 17-8: Tinea corporis or body ringworm. (Courtesy of the CDC / Lucille K. Georg, 1964.) Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Figure 17-9: Tinea pedia or athlete’s foot. (Courtesy of the CDC / Lucille K. Georg, 1964.) Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Figure 17-10: Tinea cruris or jock itch. (© Custom Medical Stock Photo) Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Figure 17-11: Tinea capitis or scalp ringworm. (Courtesy of the CDC, 1959.) Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Figure 17-12: Tinea unguium or nail fungus. (Courtesy of the CDC / Dr. Edwin P. Ewing, Jr., 1997.) Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Figure 17-13: Tinea barbae or barber’s itch. (Courtesy of the CDC, 1975.) Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Candidiasis Infection appears on the skin, mucous membranes, or fingernail. Candidiasis on the skin – May produce patches of itchy red blisters and pustules, the nail may turn white or yellow in color and separate from the finger or toe Vaginal candida infections are common in pregnant women, diabetics, or those who are immunocompromised. – Vaginal candidiasis is commonly known as a “yeast infection” and frequently occurs after antibiotic therapy. – Symptoms include a white “cottage cheese” -like discharge from the vagina accompanied by burning, itching, and redness. Vaginal candidiasis is effectively treated with vaginal antifungal creams, or oral antifungal agents. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Candidiasis (continued) Thrush or Candida infection of the mouth: – Creamy white patches on the tongue or side of the mouth often characterize a Candida infection of the mouth or thrush. – The patches are often painful and can easily be scraped off. Thrush is common in young healthy children, immunosuppressed adults, and diabetics. – Long-term treatment of oral thrush with topical liquids or oral antifungals is generally required. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Figure 17-14: Candidia albicans, a fungus, causes a skin infection characterized by erythema, pustules, and a typical white substance covering the area. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Parasitic Infestations Pediculosis Scabies Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Pediculosis Head lice – Lice are spread from head to head directly or indirectly by shared combs, scarves, hats, and bed linen. – Symptoms: itching, scratching that follows can open the skin to other invading organisms. – Adult head lice are difficult to see, but their white eggs, called nits, can be located on the hair shaft. – Treatment includes use of medicated shampoos followed by use of a fine-toothed comb. Over-thecounter medications are also available. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Pediculosis (continued) Pubic lice – Infest pubic hair of both men and women and are generally spread by sexual contact. Treatment includes use of a prescription cream Body lice – Most common among underprivileged, transient people, this type of infestation can be prevented with good grooming and hygiene. – Body lice can spread serious disease, and they have been responsible for typhus epidemics among soldiers during wartime. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Scabies Caused by a parasite called a mite – The female mite burrows into skin folds in the groin, under the – – – – breasts, and between fingers and toes. As she burrows, she lays eggs in the tunnels, the eggs hatch, and the cycle starts again. Symptoms: intense itching, blisters, and pustules develop, and the tunnels in the skin appear as grayish lines. Scratching opens the lesions to secondary bacterial infection. Scabies is transmitted by close personal contact and can be linked to a venereal disease. Epidemics of scabies are common in camps and barracks. Treatment: mites and eggs must be totally destroyed by hot baths, scrubbing, and medications to eliminate them. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Figure 17-15: Photodermatitis (Courtesy of Jason L. Smith, MD.) Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Figure 17-16: Exfoliative dermatitis is an inflammatory skin disorder causing excessive skin peeling. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Hypersensitivity of Immune Disorders of the Skin Insect bites Urticaria Eczema Poison ivy Drug-related eruptions Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Insect Bites Insect bites and stings can produce local inflammatory reactions that may vary in appearance. Acute reactions may appear as hives whereas more chronic reactions may appear as papules or bullae. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Urticaria (Hives) Results from a vascular reaction of the skin to an allergen The lesions are wheals, rounded elevations with red edges and pale centers. Allergic response – mast cells, release histamine, dilation and permeability of blood vessels, infiltration of blood proteins and fluid into the tissues = edema. Treatment: steroids, antihistamines, and calamine lotion; elimination of allergen or irritant Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Eczema Contact dermatitis is a noncontagious inflammatory skin disorder. Results from sensitization that develops from skin contact with various agents, plants, chemicals, and metals A delayed type of allergic response in which lymphocytes are sensitized by an antigen, and react with it on subsequent exposure – The typical inflammatory reaction occurs: dilated blood vessels, reddened skin, and edema, vesicles and bullae develop from the excess tissue fluid, and the lesions are very itchy. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Eczema (continued) Contact dermatitis can affect anyone – Skin that has been damaged is more easily sensitized Corticosteroids are sometimes used to reduce the inflammatory reaction. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Click on the screenshot to view a video on the topic of eczema. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Return to Directory Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved. Poison Ivy Contact with poison ivy can cause an extremely itchy rash with blisters and hive-like swelling. – The response is a typical example of allergic contact dermatitis. Severity of the condition depends on the amount of plant resin on the skin and the individual’s sensitivity to it. – Initial exposure to the poison ivy plant produces no visible effect but sensitizes the person to subsequent exposure. – The rash usually develops a few hours or a few days after contact. Treatment to lessen the inflammation is use of a topical cortisone-type cream, gel, or spray. Mulvihill, Zelman, Holdaway, Tompary, and Raymond Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach, 6e Copyright ©2006 by Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458 All rights reserved.