126 Chapter 6
Common Disease, Disorder, or ConditionRingwormRingworm is caused by several species of fungi. Its symptoms include itchy, patchy
scalelike lesions with raised edges. In earlier times, it was believed that this condition was
caused by worms, hence its other name, tinea, which is Latin for worm. Ringworm on the
feet is called athlete’s foot or tinea pedis; in the groin area, it is called jock itch or tinea
corporis. Ringworm of the scalp is called tinea capitis and is most common in children.
Untreated, it can lead to hair loss and secondary bacterial infections.Psoriasis^
Psoriasis (soh-RYE-ah-sis) is a common chronic skin disorder that may be genetic in -orgin.
The actual cause is unknown. It is characterized by red patches covered with thick, dry, and
silvery scales that develop from excessive production of epithelial cells through -hyperactivity
of the stratum germinativum. These patches can develop anywhere on the body. When the
scales are scraped away, bleeding usually results. There is no known cure for this disease,
but it can be controlled with corticosteroids, ultraviolet light, and tar solution creams and
shampoos.
Warts^
Warts are caused by human papillomavirus. The virus causes uncontrolled growth of
-epidermal tissue. The virus is transmitted by direct contact with an infected individual. The
growths are usually benign and disappear spontaneously. They can also be removed
surgically or with topical applications.
Cold Sores^
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are caused by Type I herpes simplex virus. Initial
infections show no symptoms but the virus can remain dormant in the skin around the mouth
and in the mucous membrane of the mouth. When activated, it produces small, fluid-filled
blisters that can be both painful and irritating. Stress seems to activate the virus.
Impetigo^
Impetigo (im-peh-TEYE-go) is a highly contagious skin disease of children caused by the
bacterium Staphylococcus aureus (Figure 6-8). The skin erupts with small blisters- contain-
ing pus that rupture easily, producing a honey-colored crust. The blisters usually develop on
the face and can spread. The bacteria are spread by direct contact and enter the skin
through abrasions. Treatment includes cleansing with antibacterial- soaps and antibiotics.
Shingles^
Shingles is caused by the Herpes zoster or chickenpox virus that develops after the child-
hood infection. The virus remains dormant within cranial or spinal nerves. Trauma or stress
somehow activates the virus to travel through the nerve paths to the skin where it produces
very painful, vesicular skin eruptions. Treatment is symptomatic with lotions to relieve itching
and analgesics to control pain.
Vitiligo^
Vitiligo (vit-ill-EYE-go) is an acquired skin disease resulting in irregular patches of skin of
various sizes completely lacking in any pigmentation. The depigmented white patches are
often located on exposed areas of skin. The cause of the disease is unknown.
Moles^
Moles are produced by groupings of melanocytes that develop during the first years of life.
They are common disorders of the skin that are usually benign and developed by