What is cicatricial pemphigoid? Cicatricial pemphigoid is a chronic vesiculobullous disease with a tendency to affect the mucous membranes of the eyes and mouth. Scarring often results. Other mucosal surfaces may be involved as well, including the esophagus, upper airways, anus, and external genitalia. Chronic inflammation of the oral mucosa may lead to loss of teeth. [...]
What is cellulitis? Cellulitis is a deep infection of the skin; it results in dermal erythema. The affected area is red, warm, indurated (hard) and tender. The responsible organisms are usually Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococus pyogenes (Group A streptecocci). Prior to the advent of a vaccine, Haemophilus influenzae was the most common cause of facial cellulitis in young children; Streptococus pyogenes is now the [...]
What is the Carcinoid Syndrome? The carcinoid syndrome results from the production of vasoactive substances by a carcinoid tumor. Cutaneous manifestations include flushing. It can sometimes be confused with the early flushing of acne rosacea.
What is candidiasis? Skin candidiasis is an inflammatory response to epidermal infection with the yeast Candida albicans. It appears as a strikingly red area with “satellite” papules and, frequently, pustules. The primary risk factor is a moist environment; it is common in diaper-wearing infants, patient’s with excessive skin folds (e.g. obesity), those who occupationally have prolonged immersion [...]
What is Bullous Pemphigoid? Bullous pemphigoid is an autoimmune disorder that results in the formation of bullae, most often in the groin, axillae, and intertriginous areas. It is primarily a disease of the elderly. Oral involvement occurs in approximately 33% of patients. Bullae form at the subepidermal junction. This results in tense bullae that do [...]