Skin Disorders: Pictures, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment.

What are the most common types of skin diseases?

25 Most Common Types of Skin Diseases.

Acne.

• Acne often appears on the face, neck, shoulders, chest and upper back as blocked skin follicles.

• Skin breakouts can consist of redness, blackheads, whiteheads, pimples or painful cysts and nodules.

• If left untreated this condition can result in scarring or darkening of the skin.

• Individuals with darker skin tones may also experience inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) which manifests as dark spots.

Cold sores.

• Cold sores often start with a tingling or itching feeling, followed by the formation of blisters. These blisters can merge together burst open and eventually form sores that crust over and heal.

• While cold sores are commonly seen on the lips they can also appear inside the mouth on the gums or even, on the nose or face. During recurring outbreaks they tend to reappear in the area.

• Once someone is infected with HSV 1 the virus remains dormant in nerve cells. Can become active again causing repeated episodes of sores. Factors like stress, illness, sun exposure and hormonal changes can trigger these recurrences.

• Cold sores are highly contagious when the blisters are present. Close personal contact such as kissing or sharing items like utensils, towels or razors can transmit the virus.

• Cold sores usually progress through stages including blister formation, sore phase and finally healing. The entire duration, from onset to complete healing typically lasts one to two weeks.

Blister.

• A blister is a bump on the skin that contains fluid, which forms due to friction, burns or irritation.

• It serves as a shield for skin aiding in its healing process.

• Blisters can be filled with either fluid or blood, and it might lead to discomfort or pain.

Actinic Keratosis.

• Actinic keratosis is a skin condition that occurs due to prolonged exposure to the sun leading to the development of scaly patches or lesions.

• It is important to note that this condition can be a precursor to skin cancer cell carcinoma.

• It may appear on hands, arms, face or scalp, as they are the most exposed body parts to the sun.

Keratosis Pilaris.

• Keratosis pilaris is a seen skin condition that presents as bumpy roughness, on the surface of the skin.

• It is an harmless conditions that shows through small bumps on arms, thighs, cheeks or buttocks.

• it gets worse in cold weathers, as they resemble goosebumps, or the skin of a plucked chicken.

Hives

• Hives, which are also referred to as urticaria are raised welts, they are scaly rashes.

• They look like raised bumps, usually red or pink, they are itchy and may get worse with time.

• When you press a hive bump it will turn white, before turning red or pink.

• they can get triggered by allergens mainly, due to food, insects, environment and medications.

Carbuncle

• A carbuncle refers to a skin infection where multiple boils, known as furuncles are connected.

• These furuncles are painful, filled with pus occurring in hair follicles and nearby tissues.

• They may be accompanied with fever or fatigue.What are some types of rare skin diseases?

Eczema

• Eczema shows up as itchy rashes, on the skin.

• It is a condition that can affect individuals of all ages and the severity of its symptoms can vary.

• It is believed to result from a combination of environmental and immune system factors. The condition may worsen due to triggers such as foods, irritants, stress or changes, in weather.

Latex Allergy

• Latex allergy occurs when the immune system reacts to proteins in rubber latex, which is obtained from the sap of the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis).

• May include skin reactions, respiratory issues and in instances anaphylaxis.

• Latex allergy is frequently observed in individuals who have had repeated exposure to latex such, as healthcare professionals or those who have undergone surgeries.

Lupus

• Lupus, also known as lupus erythematosus (SLE) can impact different areas of the body including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain and blood cells.

• In individuals with lupus their immune system mistakenly attacks tissues leading to inflammation and a variety of symptoms. It appears to be influenced by a combination of factors, hormonal imbalances and environmental triggers.

• Lupus can manifest in ways like discomfort or pain skin rashes that often resemble a butterfly shape across the face, tiredness or fatigue feverish episodes and organ complications.

Cellulitis

• Cellulitis refers to an infection that causes inflammation in the skin and tissues beneath it.

• This condition usually occurs when bacteria, such as Streptococcus or Staphylococcus, enters the skin through a cut, break or wound.

• The affected area becomes swollen, red and painful, with warmth and tenderness.

Measles

• Measles is an infection caused by the measles virus and is highly contagious.

• The virus is easily transmitted through droplets but can also spread rapidly from one person to another. Symptoms commonly associated with measles include a fever, cough, nose and a distinctive red rash that typically starts on the face before spreading to other parts of the body.

• Measles can give rise to complications such, as pneumonia and encephalitis.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the form of skin cancer, it originates from the basal cells, which are found in the layer of the epidermis (the layer of the skin).

• BCC is commonly linked to prolonged exposure to sunlight, as it typically develops on sun exposed areas like the face and neck. While it grows slowly and usually lacks aggression if left untreated it can harm tissues.

• BCC often manifests as a raised waxy bump with blood vessels or as a flat scar like lesion, in flesh tones or shades of brown.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a type of skin cancer that originates from cells known as squamos cells, which are present on the surface of our skin.

• SCC is usually linked to prolonged exposure, to sunlight. It can also develop on areas of the skin that have experienced burns, scars or chronic skin conditions.

• Unlike basal cell carcinoma, SCC tends to grow at a faster rate and can potentially spread to other body parts if not treated. It often manifests as a scaly patch or a solid raised lump.

Melanoma

• Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that originates melanocytes—the cells for producing melanin, which gives color to our skin, hair and eyes.

• It is considered the form of skin cancer and can arise from pre existing moles or as new growths on the skin.

• Factors that increase the risk of developing melanoma include exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, from the sun or artificial sources, a history of sunburns instances of melanoma and having numerous or atypical moles.

Contact Dermatitis

• Contact dermatitis is a skin condition that occurs when the skin becomes inflamed due to contact with an irritant or allergen. It is important to note that this condition is not contagious and only happens when the skin comes into contact with substances that trigger a response.

• The symptoms of contact dermatitis can differ from person to person. They commonly include redness, itching, swelling and the appearance of a rash or blisters.

Warts

• A wart is a growth on the skin that’s not cancerous and is caused by an infection caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts can appear on parts of the body such as the hands, feet, face and genital area.

• They are contagious and can spread through contact between skin or contact with surfaces that carry the virus.

• Although warts may sometimes disappear on their own there are treatment options for those who want to get rid of them. Common methods for removing warts include using over the counter treatments like cryotherapy (freezing) laser therapy or surgical removal.

Chickenpox

• Chickenpox is a viral infection caused by the varicella zoster virus and it is characterized by a rash of spots and blisters that typically starts on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body.

• Additional symptoms may include fever, tiredness and headache. Although chickenpox is primarily seen in children, people of any age can become infected.

• The virus is transmitted through droplets or direct contact with the rash. While chickenpox usually presents as an illness that resolves on its own, complications can occur in adults, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems.

Seborrheic Dermatitis or Eczema

• Seborrheic eczema, also referred to as dermatitis is a skin condition that many people experience over an extended period and it is characterized by skin inflammation resulting in redness, itching and flaking on the face (around nose and eyebrows) and upper chest.

• It’s important to note that seborrheic eczema is not contagious and can be triggered by factors such as stress levels, specific weather conditions or the presence of a yeast called Malassezia on the skin. Fortunately with skincare routines and specialized shampoos designed for this conditions management individuals can effectively keep it under control even though it may persist over time.

Melasma

• Melasma is a skin condition that causes the development of uneven patches on the skin, mainly on the face. These dark patches typically appear on the forehead, cheeks and upper lip.

• It is often linked to changes like those experienced during pregnancy or due to birth control pills. Sun exposure can also trigger melasma.

• To manage and reduce the appearance of melasma its recommended to use sun protection and certain topical treatments.

Ringworm

• Ringworm, despite its name, is not actually caused by a worm, instead it is an infection that affects the skin. It presents as a rash, with raised edges resembling the shape of a worm.

• Different types of fungi called dermatophytes, are responsible for causing ringworm. It can affect body parts such as the skin, scalp and nails.

• This condition is highly contagious, it can spread through contact with an infected person, animal or contaminated surfaces. To treat ringworm infections antifungal medications are commonly used either topically or orally.

Impetigo

• Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that typically affects children but can also occur in individuals of any age.

• The main symptoms of impetigo include sores or blisters that may break open and release a honey colored fluid before forming a crust that turns brown.

• While impetigo is commonly found around the mouth and nose it can also develop on parts of the body. 

Red, itchy skin is a symptom of more than one health condition.

Red and itchy skin can indicate health issues. It might suggest the presence severe symptoms of a skin problem, like eczema (atopic dermatitis), contact dermatitis (caused by exposure to irritants or allergens) or psoriasis (a disorder characterized by skin cell buildup). Allergic reactions to foods, medications or insect bites can also lead to itchy skin. Conditions such as hives (urticaria), scabies, fungal infections, infection like ringworm or autoimmune skin diseases, may show symptoms. Additionally dry skin, heat rash, stress or side effects from medication could contribute to redness and itching.

What skin conditions are caused by stress and anxiety?

Some common skin some conditions can be triggered by stress and anxiety, although stress itself doesn’t directly cause these conditions, it can contribute to flare ups and make existing common skin some conditions worse. Common skin conditions associated with stress and anxiety include;

• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Stress can trigger or aggravate eczema flare ups resulting in red rashes that often appear in areas where the skin bends, like the elbows or behind the knees.

• Psoriasis: Stress has been identified as a factor that exacerbates psoriasis symptoms. Psoriasis is characterized by red, scaly patches of skin that can be itchy and painful.

• Acne: Stress may play a role in the development or deterioration of acne. Hormonal changes triggered by stress can lead to increased oil production in the skin potentially causing breakouts.

• Hives (Urticaria): Stress can act as a trigger for hives, which are raised itchy welts on the skin. These welts may go and could be associated with a reaction.

• Rosacea: Stress is commonly considered a trigger for rosacea flare ups. This chronic skin condition causes redness and visible blood vessels on the face.

What is a permanent skin conditions?

A chronic skin condition is a term used to describe a skin problem that lasts for a time even for the entire life of the disease control an individual. These conditions can have triggers, such, as factors, autoimmune responses, infections or environmental influences.

While some chronic skin disease symptoms can be managed with treatment others may need care to relieve symptoms and enhance the well being of those affected by them.

Do skin diseases usually return after treatment?

The chances of skin diseases coming back after treatment can vary depending on the condition how effective the treatment is and individual factors. In some cases successful treatment can lead to term or permanent improvement, with minimal to no recurrence. However certain skin conditions are chronic. May require management with symptoms potentially resurfacing periodically.

Are there conditions that put me at higher risk of developing a skin disease?

Certainly there are factors and circumstances that can heighten the likelihood of developing skin diseases. Some of these risk elements include;

• Genetics: Having a family history of skin conditions can increase the chances of encountering issues.

• Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions that weaken the immune system problems such as HIV/AIDS or autoimmune skin diseases, may make an individual more susceptible to skin infections and disorders.

• Age: Infants, adults and individuals with aging skin tend to be more prone to skin problems.

• Occupational Exposures: Certain professions that involve exposure to chemicals allergens or frequent contact with water can raise the risk of developing conditions like contact dermatitis.

• Environmental Factors: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources can heighten the probability of developing skin cancers and other sun related damage.

• Personal or Family History of Skin Cancer: Having either an family history of skin cancer melanoma can increase ones susceptibility to developing skin cancers.

• Allergies: Individuals with allergies may have a likelihood of experiencing conditions such, as eczema or allergic contact dermatitis.

• Stress:Prolonged stress can potentially worsen or contribute to skin conditions, like psoriasis or acne.

• Specific Medications: Certain medications may have effects on the skin. Make it more sensitive, to sunlight harsh chemicals.

What are life threatening skin conditions?

Although most skin conditions are not typically life threatening there are a few that can have consequences especially if left untreated or if they are linked to health concerns. While rare some examples of life threatening skin conditions include: Melanoma, Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS), Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, Necrotizing Fascitis, Pemphigus Vulgaris.

Skin Tags

Skin tags, which are also known as acrochordons, in terminology are growths that are soft and benign. They typically hang off the skin through a stalk. These growths are quite common and generally harmless. Skin tags usually have a flesh colored appearance although they can be slightly darker. In terms of size they can range from a millimeters to larger than a centimeter. They appear as soft hrowths hanging from the skin, generally they have a flesh appearance, or the skin color may be slightly darker. They come in varying sizes, usually small ranging from a milliliters to growths, and can be commonly found in areas where the skin rubs against other parts of the skin or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, groin area and under the breasts. These skin tags are generally harmless, as they do not pose any skin problems in general, some individuals choose to remove them, as they can become irritated. Removing them through laser treatments and cryotherapy.

Noncontagious skin disorders

Noncommunicable skin diseases and disorders refer to conditions that cannot be transmitted from the skin changes or body temperature of one person, to another through contact or exposure. Here are a few examples of skin disorders: psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, hives, rosacea, itchthyosis, pemghigus Volgaris, Hidradenitis Suppurativa, Alopecia Areata.

Psoriasis, as it is a disorder that causes an excessive production of dead skin cell resulting in the formation of red or scaly skin patches, however it is not a contagious skin disease;

Eczema is a skin disease where the skin gets inflamed by factors beyond skin sensitivity, such as genetics, allergies or irritants. Eczema will show as red rough skin, itching, dry skin and on severe cases pus filled bumps;

Vitiligo is another skin disease where certain area of the skin loses pigmentation, leading to appearance of skin patch or non pigmented patches on the skin. This may show as irregular patched with skin coloration.

Hives (Urticaria) are raides and itchy red welts on the skin often caused by reactions or other triggers, taking a skin sample may identify the gravity of the urticaria. Hives may give some discomfort like itching, swelling and presence of welts, the look may vary depending on different skin tones.

Rosacea is a skin condition characterized by facial redness, flushing episodes and visible small blood vessels on dry skin parts of the face. When you develop rosacea you may notice redness and in some cases bumps and pimples.

Ichthyosis is a known cause of skin disorders that lead to dry, cracked skin or thickened skin. The skin color changes by becoming thickened or rough with the presence of scales. Topical creams may help.

Pemphigus Vulgaris is a blistering disorder that can result in the formation of large painful blisters on both the skin and mucous membranes. You can manage symptoms by getting medicated creams.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a skin condition characterized by the development of skin folds or nodules in areas where the skin rubs against each other. This will appear as lumps, abcesses and cause scarring; oral medications may be helpful.

Alopecia Areata is a conditon causing both hair growth and loss, this is not contagious, as Alopecia can appear as round patches of hair loss appearing on either the scalp and other parts of the body.