Melasma is a skin condition in which brown patches occur primarily on the cheekbones, forehead and upper lip. It also may develop on the nose chin, lower cheeks and sides of the neck. The dark patches usually have distinct edges. Melasma is seen most frequently in young women taking birth control pills and also occurs […]

What are Paronychia ? A paronychia is an infection which develops next to the fingernail. It may arise anywhere around the “U” shaped line where the fingernail doesn’t seem to have a protruding edge – where the edge of the nail is covered by skin. It may be a mild infection, but often is associated […]

The most common form of mastocytosis is a disease of the skin. In very rare cases, mastocytosis can affect other parts of the body, like the stomach, the intestines and the bone marrow. This condition results when a person has too many mast cells. Mastocytosis can occur at any age. However, it’s usually more serious […]

What Is Keratosis Pilaris? Keratosis pilaris is a common skin disorder characterized by small bumps on the back of the arms , pointed pimples. The pimples usually appear on the upper arms, thighs, and buttocks. The condition worsens in the winter and usually clears up in the summer. Keratosis pilaris has no known cause, but […]

What is Impetigo? Impetigo is an infection of the skin caused primarily by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci (GABS). Sometimes another bacterium, Staphylococcus aureus, can also be isolated from impetigo lesions. Symptoms of Impetigo Impetigo shows up as a rash that may occur anywhere on the body and commonly […]

What is Leprosy? Leprosy is a painful condition which, although curable, can leave sufferers deformed and crippled if left untreated. It is caused by a bacteria similar to that which causes tuberculosis. Leprosy Forms Leprosy has two common forms, tuberculoid and lepromatous, and these have been further subdivided. Both forms produce lesions on the skin, […]

What Are Hives? Hives are pink or red bumps or slightly raised patches of skin. Sometimes, they have a pale center. Hives usually itch, but they also can burn or sting. Hives also might look like rings or groups of rings joined together. Hives can appear in clusters and might change locations in a matter […]

What is Ecthyma?   Ecthyma is a skin infection similar to impetigo, but more deeply invasive. Usually caused by a streptococcus infection, ecthyma goes through the outer layer (epidermis) to the deeper layer (dermis) of skin, possibly causing scars.   Streptococcal and staphylococcal bacteria may cause skin infections at various levels and depths. Ecthyma is […]

What is Dermatitis?   Dermatitis refers to an inflammation of the skin, both externaJ and internal. It is characterised by redness, swelling, heat and pain or itching. Any part of the body may be affected by this disease. The exposed areas such as the eyelids, forearms, face and neck are more likely to be involved. […]