Severe febrile illnesses, pregnancy, myxedema (condition resulting from hypo-
thyroidism), and cancer therapies are conditions contributing to temporary hair loss.
A 2% minoxidil (Rogaine) solution has been approved by the FDA for treat-
ing alopecia. Minoxidil causes vasodilation. This increases cutaneous blood
flow and stimulates hair-follicle growth. However, alopecia returns within 3 to
4 monthsafter the patient stops using minoxidil. Systemic absorption of minox-
idil is minimal and adverse reactions seldom occur.BURNS
A burn causes lesions that break down skin exposing the body to infection. There
are three causes of burns: heat (thermal), electricity (electrical), and chemicals.
All cause the same kind of skin lesion.
Burns are classified by degree, which is based on the tissue depth of the burn.
There are three burn classifications: first-degree, second-degree, and third degree.
Burns are assessed by the percentage of body area that has been burned. This is
commonly referred to as the Rule of Nines (see Table 20-3). For example, if a
patient’s left leg is burned, then 18% of the patient’s body is burned.First-degree (superficial) burns
First-degree burns affect only the epidermis (outer layer) of skin. The burn site
is red, painful, dry, and with no blisters such as seen in a mild sunburn. Rarely(^380) CHAPTER 20 Skin Disorders
Body Area Percentage Assessed
Head 9%
Front Torso 18%
Back Torso 18%
Right Arm 9%
Left Arm 9%
Right Leg 18%
Left Leg 18%
Groin 1%
Table 20-3. Rule of nines.