The skin is the human body's largest organ, and it protects against a range of external factors, including bacteria, chemicals, and temperature. Furthermore, it contributes to body temperature regulation.
Being the external layer that protects our body, the skin is subject to diverse conditions and disorders with varying degrees of severity. One of the most widespread skin conditions is acne. According to studies, roughly 85 percent of people between ages 12 and 24 have some form of acne. However, the condition recently became more frequent in adults too.
Acne is often triggered by hormonal changes and gradually subsides into adulthood. The cause of acne involve complex mix of factors such as excessive production of oil leading to the formation of sebum, bacteria, genetic influence, possibly diet and dead skin cells. The most common area for acne is the face, but it can also appear on the neck, shoulders, and back.
Acne can leave scars if untreated, so consulting your doctor is recommended. Treatment options vary depending on the severity, but they usually consist of topical creams in the form of over the counter or with a prescription as well as various forms of oral therapy. In some cases, referral to dermatologist maybe indicated. In addition, acne can contribute to significant psychological morbidity in some people and the need for mental health support may be indicated.
Another common skin condition is atopic dermatitis, or eczema, affecting mainly infants and children under five. The condition presents as dry and itchy patches of skin due to skin inflammation. In most cases, children outgrow the condition as they get older.
The factors contributing to eczema are an immune response to irritants or allergens, a history of eczema or other types of dermatitis, and even emotional triggers such as stress or anxiety. Treatments include moisturizers, topical steroid medication, short term steroid oral medication for severe flares, immunosuppressants (to regulate the immune system), and light therapy.
Psoriasis is another widespread condition affecting roughly range of 0.5 to 11.5 percent of the worldwide adult population and 0 to 1.4 percent in children (1). Despite having symptoms similar to eczema, like an itchy rash, psoriasis is an autoimmune condition causing inflammation in the skin and causing the formation of thick patches of scaly skin. These areas are called plaques.
Psoriasis can be caused by stress, skin injury, a reaction to certain medications, changes in body temperature, or streptococcal infections. The condition can manifest anywhere on the skin, the most common areas being the elbows and knees, face, scalp, fingernails and toenails, genitals, and lower back.
Psoriasis is diagnosed through a history, physical examination that includes full skin inspection, but a skin biopsy is useful to rule out other skin conditions. Treatment includes steroid creams, moisturizers, topical medication, and creams with vitamin D3 or vitamin A as well as biologic agents.
Skin cancer is another widespread skin condition, affecting almost one in five people at some stage of life. Most skin cancers are curable if found early. Skin cancer develops when the skin cells grow and multiply uncontrollably. This rapid and abnormal cell growth can be cancerous. Some forms of skin cancers include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma and non melanoma skin cancer.
Treatment for skin cancer depends on its stage. Some tumors can be removed through a simple biopsy or cryotherapy (using liquid nitrogen). Other treatments include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and excisional surgery. Some ways to reduce the risk of skin cancer are using sunscreen with an SPF (skin protection factor) of 30 or higher, wearing clothing that covers the skin and hats to protect the face and avoiding sun exposure during the hottest hours.
It is important to see your doctor when noticing visible changes in the skin's appearance. In some cases, your doctor may refer you to a dermatologist who may suggest a biopsy, which consists of removing a tissue sample and analyzing it in a laboratory.
