Medical Terminology Flashcards: Dermatology Terms, Skin Conditions, Wounds, Lesions

Dermatitis means inflammation of the skin, from dermat meaning skin and itis meaning inflammation. Common types include contact dermatitis caused by direct skin contact with an irritant or allergen, atopic dermatitis also called eczema which is a chronic itchy condition often associated with allergies and asthma, seborrheic dermatitis which causes scaly patches on oily areas like the scalp and face, and stasis dermatitis from poor circulation in the lower legs. The general term dermatitis describes any skin inflammation regardless of cause.

These terms describe primary skin lesions by their appearance. A macule is a flat, discolored area less than one centimeter in diameter, like a freckle or flat mole. If larger than one centimeter, it is called a patch. A papule is a raised, solid bump less than one centimeter, like a small wart. If larger than one centimeter, it is called a plaque or nodule. A vesicle is a small fluid-filled blister less than one centimeter, like a chickenpox lesion. If larger than one centimeter, it is called a bulla.

Subcutaneous means beneath the skin, from sub meaning under and cutaneous meaning relating to the skin. Subcutaneous tissue, also called the hypodermis, is the deepest layer of skin composed primarily of fat and connective tissue. Subcutaneous injections deliver medication into this fatty layer, providing slower absorption than intramuscular or intravenous routes. Common subcutaneous medications include insulin, heparin, and some vaccines.

Melanoma is a malignant tumor arising from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells of the skin. The term combines melan meaning black or dark and oma meaning tumor. Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer because it can metastasize rapidly to lymph nodes, lungs, liver, brain, and bones if not caught early. Warning signs follow the ABCDE rule: asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, diameter greater than six millimeters, and evolving shape or size. Risk factors include excessive ultraviolet exposure, fair skin, multiple moles, and family history.

Cyanosis means a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes caused by inadequate oxygen in the blood. The term comes from cyano meaning blue and osis meaning condition. Central cyanosis, visible on the lips, tongue, and mucous membranes, indicates severely low blood oxygen levels from respiratory or cardiac causes and requires immediate medical attention. Peripheral cyanosis, seen in the fingers and toes, may result from cold exposure or poor circulation. Cyanosis becomes visible when deoxygenated hemoglobin exceeds approximately five grams per deciliter.

An abscess is a localized collection of pus surrounded by inflamed tissue, resulting from the body's immune response to infection. The pus consists of dead white blood cells, bacteria, and tissue debris. Abscesses can form anywhere in the body including the skin, brain, liver, lungs, and teeth. A skin abscess presents as a painful, warm, swollen, red area that may drain pus. Treatment typically involves incision and drainage, abbreviated I and D, and possibly antibiotics. ---