Skin disease refers to any abnormal condition or disorder that affects the integumentary system, which includes the skin, hair, nails, and associated glands. It encompasses a wide range of conditions, varying in symptoms, causes, and severity. Skin diseases can be classified into various categories, including infections, inflammatory disorders, autoimmune diseases, genetic conditions, neoplastic diseases, and allergic reactions.
Infections such as bacterial, fungal, viral, or parasitic can cause skin diseases. Examples include acne, impetigo, ringworm, herpes, and scabies. Inflammatory disorders like eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and rosacea involve the body's immune response, resulting in redness, swelling, itching, and other symptoms.
Autoimmune diseases like lupus, pemphigus, and vitiligo occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. Genetic conditions such as ichthyosis, albinism, and epidermolysis bullosa are inherited and manifest with various skin abnormalities.
Neoplastic diseases like skin cancer (melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma) involve the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells.
Allergic reactions result from the immune response to substances like pollen, certain foods, medications, or contact with irritants. Examples include hives, rashes, and allergic contact dermatitis.
Skin diseases can be characterized by symptoms like itching, redness, dryness, flaking, sores, blisters, discoloration, and changes in texture. Diagnosis often involves a medical professional examining the affected area, conducting tests (biopsies, cultures, blood tests), and considering patient history.
Treatment for skin diseases varies based on the specific condition and may include medications, lifestyle changes, phototherapy, surgical interventions,
