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Other skin conditions (31 articles)

  • Acne.
    Acne is a skin problem consisting of mild to severe outbreaks of blackheads, pimples and cysts. Triggers include hormones associated with puberty. Self-help strategies include keeping the skin clean and resisting the urge to squeeze pimples.

  • Bairnsdale ulcer.
    Bairnsdale ulcer is a skin disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium ulcerans. The toxins made by the bacteria destroy skin cells, small blood vessels and subcutaneous fat, which leads to ulceration and skin loss.

  • Bedbugs.
    Bedbugs infest dirty houses, particularly mattresses, and feed off human blood. Their bite typically causes a large, reddened and itchy wheal. Treatment options include anaesthetic creams and icepacks.

  • Birthmarks.
    Any mark that is present on the skin at birth, or that develops soon afterwards, is called a birthmark. They are very common - most children have a mark of some sort. Occasionally, a birthmark may be a sign of other problems or diseases.

  • Blisters.
    A blister is a small pocket of fluid in the upper skin layers that occurs as a response to injury, pressure or inflammation. The feet are particularly prone. Blisters generally should not be popped, as this can lead to infection.

  • Blushing explained.
    Facial blushing is an involuntary reddening of the face due to embarrassment or stress. Severe blushing is common in people who have social phobia, which is a type of anxiety disorder characterised by extreme and persistent anxiety in social and performance situations.

  • Bowen's disease.
    Bowen's disease is a type of slow-growing and scaly skin patch, most commonly on the lower leg. The cause is unknown, although sun exposure is a risk factor. Treatment options include cryosurgery, curettage, medicated ointments and surgery.

  • Burns.
    Some of the causes of burns include flame, UV radiation, hot liquids, electricity, lightning and certain chemicals. Major burns are a medical emergency, and require urgent medical attention. In some cases, skin graft surgery is needed.

  • Cellulitis.
    Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin that tends to occur in areas that have been damaged or inflamed. Treatment includes antibiotics.

  • Cradle cap.
    Cradle cap is a form of dermatitis that affects the scalp of babies in their first few months of life. It causes greasy, yellow crusts on the scalp. Mild antidandruff shampoos or massage with mineral oil, followed next day by gently lifting the crusts, can help.

  • Eczema explained.
    Eczema is a non-contagious skin condition, controlled by treatment, that usually appears in early childhood and disappears around six years of age. In some cases, eczema may continue into adulthood. The skin becomes dry, cracked and itchy, and may weep. Eczema can vary in severity and can alter daily.

  • Erythema nodosum.
    Erythema nodosum is a skin condition characterised by the formation of red and painful lumps, most commonly on the shins. Known causes of erythema nodosum include inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), tuberculosis, certain drugs and throat infections.

  • Frostbite.
    Frostbite occurs when skin tissue freezes after exposure to cold weather. The extremities, such as the hands and feet, are at greater risk because they are more susceptible to heat loss. Most of the damage caused by frostbite occurs during rewarming.

  • Nappy rash.
    Nappy rash is commonly caused when a baby's skin is exposed to a wet or dirty nappy for too long. Treatment options include more frequent nappy changes and avoiding things that irritate the skin. Severe nappy rash needs prompt medical attention.

  • Pressure sores.
    Anyone with reduced mobility, such as being confined to a bed or chair, is at risk of developing a pressure sore. This type of skin damage is difficult to treat and can lead to serious complications.

  • Rosacea.
    Rosacea is a type of skin inflammation that affects the face. Symptoms include a permanent flush and non-tender pustules. The cause is unknown. Treatment options include medications, surgery and avoidance of known triggers such as alcohol.

  • Stretch marks.
    Stretch marks are purple-red scars that appear in overstretched skin. Around half of all pregnant women will develop stretch marks (striae gravidarum). Over time, the stretch marks lose their bright colouring and become silvery, shimmering lines.

  • Sweat explained.
    The main function of sweat is to control body temperature as it evaporates from the skin. Heat stroke can occur on a hot day if there is insufficient sweating. Hyperhidrosis is abnormal excessive sweating, most often without any known cause.

  • Sweating.
    Hyperhidrosis is the name given to excessive sweating.

  • Tattoo removal.
    Permanent tattoos can be safely removed in most cases using a modern form of laser. However, it will take weeks or months, and several treatments, before the tattoo fades.

  • Tattoos - Q & A.
    A range of questions on tattoos. Our experts provide the answers.

  • Warts.
    Warts are small skin growths caused by viral infections. There are many different types of wart. Without treatment, about 65 per cent of infections spontaneously go away by themselves.