
Lesions or marks on the skin can take many forms, colors and be different in nature as well. Some symptoms like pimples are common, others are rare (blisters). For a detailed analysis of the various symptoms that indicate a skin disease, read on.
The largest organ of the human body is the skin and it is highly vulnerable to infections and diseases. Hair, nails and the skin layer itself are perpetually exposed to external elements and foreign agents. An individual’s skin is also dependent on its genetic make-up, since certain skin diseases are hereditary in nature. Skin disease symptoms can be localized in an area of the body or located on the entire body. They also vary in size, color and occurrence. Some symptoms are temporary, which last only for the extent of the infection, while others can be permanent and leave marks or scars.
Skin Diseases: Symptoms and Signs
Below is a tabular representation of some skin disease symptoms and the associated diseases that cause such symptoms.
Symptom | Features | Diseases |
Pimples or Zits |
|
Acne Vulgaris, Rosacea |
Blackheads |
|
Acne Vulgaris |
Whiteheads |
|
Acne Vulgaris |
Boils |
|
Folliculitis, Cutaneous Leishmaniasis |
Rashes |
|
Psoriasis, Pityriasis Rosea, Fungal or Bacterial Infection, Eczema, Allergic Contact Dermatitis, Athlete’s Foot, Cellulitis |
Blisters or Vesicles |
|
Impetigo, Dyshidrosis, Dermatitis Herpetiformis, Pemphigus, Bullous Pemphigoid, Athlete’s Foot |
Warts |
|
Angiokeratoma of Mibelli, WHIM Syndrome, Verruca Plana |
Moles |
|
Melanoma, Skin Cancer, Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba Syndrome, Becker’s Nevus, Moynahan Syndrome, Spitz Nevus, Liver Spot |
Skin Pigmentation |
|
Melasma, Athlete’s Foot, Vitiligo, Trauma, Albinism, Chloasma, Chrysiasis, Vasospastic Macules, Wende-Bauckus Syndrome, Piebaldism |
Aside from the above skin disease symptoms, other signs include mild or high fever, shaking chills and trembling and swelling of certain glands and areas. For common infections and illnesses of the skin, it is best to consult a specialist or dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Standard skin disease symptoms treatment options are biopsies, laser surgery and photo-therapy. A biopsy procedure involves taking a tissue sample of the skin growth and conducting a detailed analysis to understand its cause and extent in the body. Laser surgery allows for a quicker, cleaner and more efficient way to eradicate many skin problems, while reducing the chance of recurrence. Cryosurgery or freezing the affected area with nitrogen, is used with growths like acne and some skin cancers.
Some skin conditions are occupational hazards. Those who work in leather, metal and car parts production plants as well construction, are at risk for contracting a skin infection, due to the nature of the materials used. In such cases, protective gear and repeating cleansing of the skin can help minimize the risk of contagion. The important point with skin illnesses is at the appearance of any suspicious growth, painful or not, consulting a physician is necessary, to prevent it from spreading or worsening.