Varicella (Chickenpox)

Introduction Varicella Zoster virus is Human Herpes Virus. Its transmission is by direct contact with the lesions and by the respiratory route. Initial replication occurs in the nasopharynx and conjunctivae. After the primary infection, the virus remains dormant in nervous tissue. Reactivation of chickenpox virus later in life is typically manifested as Herpes zoster. Symptoms … Read more

Molluscum Contagiosum

Introduction Molluscum Contagiosum is a common infection caused by a large epidermotropic pox virus. It is common in children and is Spread by direct human to human contact. In adults it is often transmitted during sexual intercourse. Symptoms and Clinical features of Molluscum Contagiosum Individual lesions are smooth-surfaced, firm, dome-shaped, pearly papules; average diameter 3-5 … Read more

Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

Introduction Herpes Zoster also known as shingles is a second infection with varicella-zoster virus (VZV), usually in adults and limited to a dermatome. It occurs with reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, a chickenpox virus. Symptoms and Clinical features shingles Vesicles arranged in one or more dermatomes unilaterally Initial pruritus, pain and paraesthesia Multidermatomal and disseminated … Read more

Pityriasis Versicolor (Tinea Versicolor)

What is Pityriasis Versicolor? Pityriasis Versicolor is a superficial yeast infection of the skin caused by Malassezia furfur species (normal commensals on the skin) Predisposing factors: Common in warm humid climates Occlusion of the skin with pomades and Hyperhidrosis greases Immune suppression Heat Symptoms and clinical features of Pityriasis Versicolor Usually asymptomatic (or just mild … Read more

Dermatophyte infections (Tinea)

Introduction Dermatophyte Infections is a superficial fungal infection that affects keratinized tissues. Fungi that usually cause only superficial infections on the skin are called dermatophyte-classified in three genera: Microsporum, Trichophyton and Epidermophyton It can be acquired from humans, animals, soil or vegetable matter. It is common in tropical climate (which is hot and humid).  Infection … Read more

Pityriasis Rosea

Introduction Pityriasis rosea is a common, mild, inflammatory exanthem. It tends to be seasonal, more common during the fall, winter and spring in temperate countries. In some West African countries, it is more common during the early part of the rainy season (though cases are seen throughout the year). It is common among siblings or … Read more

Psoriasis

Introduction Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease which is characterized by Increased epidermal proliferation Epidermal thickening Erythematous lesions with silvery white scales It affects people of all ages in all countries. Its cause remains largely unknown but it has been to variously attributed to genetic, climatic, nutritional, ecological and immunological factors Triggers of Psoriasis … Read more

Lichen planus

Introduction Lichen Planus is a chronic, pruritic, papular skin disease.  It has three cardinal features which include: Skin lesions Mucosal lesions Histopathologic features of band-like infiltration of lymphocytes and melanophages in the upper dermis. Some of the drugs known to cause lichen planus (LP) are Chloroquine Quinacrine Quinidine Gold Streptomycin Tetracycline NSAIDS Phenothiazines Hydrochlorothiazide Symptoms … Read more

Scabies

Introduction Scabies is an intensely pruritic infestation caused by human mite called Sarcoptes scabiei. It is contracted by close contact and rarely via fomites. Occurs commonly in children and inmates of overcrowded institutions such as prisons and boarding Houses. Infection of households is common Sexual intercourse is also another possible method of spread among adults. … Read more

Pediculosis (Lice)

Introduction Pediculosis is a diseases due to blood sucking lice. Pediculosis can be divided into three conditions: Pediculosis capitis (head lice): Caused by Pediculus humanus var. capitis Pediculosis corporis (body lice): Caused by P. humanus var. corporis Phthiriasis pubis (pubic lice): Caused by Phthirus pubis The arthropods are transmitted from human to human via: Direct contact … Read more