1 How does a pustule differ from a vesicle or bulla? A pustule is a purulent vesicle or bulla. Whereas a vesicle contains clear or translucent fluid, a pustule is filled with neutrophils or, less commonly, eosinophils. Pustules are one…
1 What is the difference between a vesicle and a bulla? Size. If a blister is less than 5 mm in diameter, it is referred to as a vesicle. If a blister is 5 mm or larger, it is called…
1 Name the two pathogenic types of contact dermatitis Contact dermatitis refers to cutaneous inflammation resulting from the interaction of an external agent and the skin. These reactions occur through one of two mechanisms: a nonimmunologic irritant contact dermatitis (ICD)…
1 What is eczematous dermatitis? Eczematous dermatitis is the clinical diagnosis used to designate a broad category of skin disorders that manifest with intensely pruritic, scaly, erythematous macules, papules, vesicles, or plaques, often with poorly defined margins. The base term…
1 Name the papulosquamous skin eruptions Papulosquamous skin disorders are inflammatory reactions characterized by red or purple papules and plaques with scale. These diseases include psoriasis, pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP), seborrheic dermatitis, pityriasis rosea, and pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta…
Acknowledgment The author acknowledges the prior contributions of Drs. H. Alan Arbuckle and Ronald E. Grimwood to this chapter. 1 What are mechanobullous disorders? Mechanobullous disorders, either inherited or acquired, are skin conditions characterized by blister formation (vesicles, bullae, and…
Acknowledgment Some of the clinical photographs were kindly provided by Drs. William Weston and Joseph Morelli. Neurofibromatosis 1 What are the two main forms of neurofibromatosis? Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1 or von Recklinghausen's disease) and neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF-2). NF-1…
1 What are the ichthyosiform dermatoses? The ichthyosiform dermatoses are a heterogeneous group of disorders presenting with excessive scaling of the skin. The inherited forms of the ichthyoses are most common, although the condition can occur secondary to other diseases.…
1 What is the most sensitive office laboratory test for diagnosing dermatophyte infections of the skin? Microscopic examination of a potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation of scrapings taken from the affected area is the most sensitive office laboratory test. A study…
1 Why do dermatologists use words that no one else understands? The language of dermatology is unique. It encompasses terms that rarely, if ever, are used in other medical specialties. The use of these correct dermatologic terms is important to…