Principles of Diagnosis
INTRODUCTION TO CHAPTER Print Section Listen Diagnosis of cutaneous disorders can be done using 2 different methods: (1) visual pattern recognition, a rapid, intuitive, nonanalytic method, or (2) an analytic…
Diagnostic Procedures
INTRODUCTION TO CHAPTER Print Section Listen A few simple diagnostic skin procedures such as potassium hydroxide (KOH) examinations, Tzanck smears, and scrapings for scabies can be valuable tests to confirm…
Principles of Management
INTRODUCTION TO CHAPTER Print Section Listen Most common skin disorders can be treated with a formulary of cost-effective, widely available topical and oral products. Topical medications are effective for most…
History and Physical Examination of the Skin, Hair, and Nails
Print Section Listen There is no more difficult art to acquire than the art of observation, and for some men it is quite as difficult to record an observation in…
Structure and Functions of the Skin
INTRODUCTION TO CHAPTER Print Section Listen The skin is the site of many complex and dynamic processes as demonstrated in Figure 1-1 and Table 1-1. These processes include barrier and…
Pruritus and Pain
Pruritus and Pain Peter J. Lynch Libby Edwards Pruritus Pruritus (syn., itch) is generally defined as an unpleasant sensation that provokes the urge to scratch. There are several caveats that…
Erosions and Ulcers
Erosions and Ulcers Libby Edwards Peter J. Lynch Although many clinicians do not differentiate erosions from ulcers, this distinction is very useful in the diagnosis of an underlying etiology. The…
Blistering and Pustular Diseases
Blistering and Pustular Diseases Libby Edwards Blisters are skin lesions that are filled with fluid; these can be bullae (large blisters with clear, straw-colored fluid), vesicles (small blisters of clear…
Dark-colored Lesions: Brown, Blue, Gray, or Black Disorders
Dark-colored Lesions: Brown, Blue, Gray, or Black Disorders Peter J. Lynch Pigmented lesions are present on the skin of the genitalia in approximately 10% to 12% of women and a…
