Common Skin Conditions

Dermatological Skin Diseases

Dermatology Associates of Birmingham, with its experienced team, is well-equipped to diagnose, treat, and manage a variety of common skin conditions. Listed below are a few of the common skin conditions that we see at our office.

Acne

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells, which causes whiteheads, blackheads and pimples. Acne is most common among teenagers, though it affects people of all ages. Treatments include topical antibiotics, retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and oral antibiotics.

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin. It often appears in childhood but can affect individuals of any age. Eczema is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including immune system dysfunction and skin barrier defects. While there is no cure for eczema, various treatments, can help manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups. Additionally, avoiding triggers like harsh soaps, certain fabrics, and stress can help prevent exacerbations and improve overall skin health for those with eczema.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic (long-lasting) disease in which the immune system becomes overactive, causing skin cells to multiply too quickly. Patches of skin become scaly and red, most often on the scalp, elbows, or knees. We do not fully understand what causes psoriasis, but we know that it involves a mix of genetics and environmental factors.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes redness, pimples, swelling, and small dilated blood vessels, usually on the face. It can also affect the eyes. The symptoms typically come and go, but can be triggered by sun, alcohol, and/or emotional stress.

Allergic Rashes

Allergic rashes occur when the skin reacts to an allergen, resulting in redness, itching, swelling, and sometimes blistering or scaling. These rashes can be caused by various triggers, including certain foods, medications, cosmetics, plants, or environmental factors like pollen or insect bites. Treatment typically involves identifying and avoiding the allergen, along with the use of antihistamines, topical corticosteroids, and soothing skincare products to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.

Cold Sores (Herpes Simplex)

Cold sores are caused by a viral infection herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), and less commonly herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Cold sores present as grouped blisters usually on the lips. There’s no cure for cold sores, but treatment can help manage outbreaks.

Epidermal Cysts

Cysts are sac-like structures that can develop in various parts of the body, containing fluid, air, or other materials. They can range in size from very small to quite large and may be benign or, in some cases, indicative of a more serious underlying condition. Treatment for cysts depends on their size, location, and whether they cause symptoms, with options including watchful waiting, drainage, surgical removal, or medication.

Hives (Urticaria)

Hives, also known as urticaria, is a skin rash that appears as red, raised, itchy bumps that can range in size. Hives are caused by histamine release from white blood cells triggered by pressure or friction, hot or cold temperatures and certain foods. Hives usually clear up within 24 hours. Treatment includes antihistamines like zyrtec or allegra.

Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum Contagiosum is a common viral infection of the skin. It presents as small pink or skin-colored smooth bumps, often with a depression in the center. Mollescum is most commonly seen in children, but can affect teens and adults. It can spread to surrounding skin by scratching, and to others from skin-to-skin contact or handling contaminated objects such as towels. Since it is caused by a virus, the bumps typically resolve on their own but many seek treatment to stop the spread.

Nail Disorders

Nail disorders encompass a range of conditions affecting the nails, including fungal infections, psoriasis, trauma, and genetic disorders. Symptoms can include changes in nail color, texture, thickness, or shape, along with pain or discomfort. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve topical or oral medications, lifestyle changes, or surgical intervention to restore nail health and appearance.

Shingles (Herpes zoster)

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person has had chickenpox, the virus can lie dormant in nerve tissue and reactivate years later as shingles. It typically presents as a painful rash with fluid-filled blisters, usually occurring on one side of the body, and can be accompanied by symptoms like fever, headache, and fatigue.

Suspicious Moles (Nevi)

Suspicious moles are characterized by irregularities in size, shape, color, or texture, and they may exhibit changes over time. These changes can include asymmetry, uneven borders, multiple colors within the mole, and a diameter larger than a pencil eraser. It’s essential to monitor moles regularly and seek medical evaluation if any concerning changes occur, as they could be indicative of melanoma or other skin cancers.
 

Warts

Warts are benign skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear on any part of the body and vary in size, shape, and appearance. While warts are usually harmless and can resolve on their own over time, treatment options include over-the-counter medications, cryotherapy, laser therapy, or surgical removal for persistent or bothersome warts.

Identification of Skin Diseases