Morphology: Lichenification, Plaques, and Fissures
The word patch is sometimes used to describe a large macule. A more precise definition of a patch is an area of the skin that is not elevated but has…
Wound Healing
The final phase of wound healing involves scar maturation and tissue remodeling. This phase overlaps in time with the first two phases; it is said to begin with the production…
Photobiology
When exposed to ultraviolet radiation, the skin increases production of melanin, which in turn helps in photoprotection. Many organic and inorganic compounds have been used as sunscreens to help neutralize…
Normal Skin Histology
The subcutaneous tissue is composed of adipocytes. This tissue’s main functions are storage of energy, insulation, and cushioning. The adipocytes are closely packed in a connective tissue septum with associated…
Vitamin D Metabolism
1,25-Vitamin D3 exerts its effect by binding with the VDR and then interacting with DNA to directly modulate the transcription of specific genes. The VDR is a member of the…
Skin Physiology—The Process of Keratinization
Once the cells reach the outer layers of the stratum corneum, they begin to be shed. On average, a keratinocyte spends 2 weeks in the stratum corneum before being shed…
Normal Skin Flora
The only parasites that can be found normally on human skin are the demodex mites, which live in various regions of the pilosebaceous unit. Demodex brevis lives within the sebaceous…
Normal Skin Anatomy
Nails are composed of specialized keratin proteins. These keratins make a hard nail plate that is believed to be important for protection, grasp, and defense. Fingernails and toenails are made…
Embryology of the Skin
By studying the embryology of the skin, one can gain insight into the mechanisms of certain genetic disorders. For example, one of the more studied groups of genetic diseases are…
Electrodesiccation and Curettage
Electrodesiccation and Curettage David J. Leffell Equipment needed Antiseptic solution 1% lidocaine with/without epinephrine 1:100,000 solution Curette (sizes 3 mm to 5 mm) Electrosurgical unit Sterile bandage Bacitracin/polymyxin ointment Considerations…
