Abstract Lichen planus (LP) is an idiopathic inflammatory disease of the skin and mucous membranes whose primary lesion is a pruritic, violaceous papule. Histologically, a band-like lymphocytic infiltrate underlies an…
Abstract The parapsoriasis group of skin disorders includes small and large plaque parapsoriasis, with some clinicians extending the spectrum of T-cell related disorders to include acute and chronic forms of…
Abstract Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) represents one of the most common dermatoses and it is caused by an incredibly diverse source of provocative agents. Determination of the inciting irritant or…
Abstract From a diagnostic and therapeutic perspective, erythroderma represents one of the most challenging entities within dermatology. This is due in part to the large number of disorders that can…
Abstract Psychocutaneous diseases are commonly encountered in the practice of dermatology, and many affected individuals lack insight into their condition or refuse a psychiatric referral. With a systematic approach to…
Abstract Pruritus is defined as an unpleasant sensation of the skin that elicits a desire to scratch, and it represents the most common skin-related symptom. In primary skin diseases, pruritus…
Abstract The major purpose of the immune system is to provide protection against harmful agents. This is achieved by a rapid “primitive” reaction, called the innate immune response , and…
Abstract Advances in the methods used to analyze DNA, RNA, and proteins are transforming the practice of medicine and research. Traditional methods to assess individual genes or proteins are complemented…
Abstract Cutaneous neurophysiology encompasses specific itch mediators and nerve fibers that transmit itch peripherally and centrally. This chapter provides an overview of fundamental mechanisms of itch, from the skin to…
Abstract Most reviews of the anatomy and physiology of skin begin with detailed descriptions of cellular composition, structural proteins, and extracellular matrix (“ground substance”). Because each of these subjects, with…
