A-Z OF SKIN
Search our A to Z of Skin to find out more about common skin conditions and problems, their symptoms, causes and how they are diagnosed and treated. You can search by both common and medical names, or by medicine or treatment name.
Both common and medical names have been included to help your search, as well as the names of medications and treatments. There are also a number of cosmetic topics which explain the latest treatments for cosmetic concerns related to the skin. Our thanks go to the many College dermatologists have contributed to the information on this site.
The information provided in the A-Z of Skin is a general guide only and does not replace individual medical advice. Please speak to your doctor for advice about your situation. The ACD is not liable for any consequences arising from relying on this information.
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Darier’s Disease
Darier’s disease is a rare, genetic disorder which causes a decreased and abnormal sticking together of skin cells and results in a variety of changes including irritating greasy crusted lumps on the skin and nail changes.
MoreDeep gyrate erythema
Deep gyrate erythema also known as erythema annulare centrifugum (EAC), refers to an annular (ring-shaped) erythematous (red) skin eruption that tends to spread outwards whilst clearing centrally.
MoreDegos Disease
Also known as ... Malignant Atrophic Papulosis What is Degos Disease? Degos Disease is a rare progressive condition affecting blood vessels. This causes disease in the skin, gastrointestinal tract and central nervous system.
MoreDelusions of Parasitosis
Delusions of Parasitosis is a rare and very distressing psychiatric disorder. The person suffering from the condition truly believes that their skin is infested by parasites (mites, lice or other insects). However, when the skin is examined, no parasites or bugs can be seen in or on the skin. The person will often experience sensations of biting, crawling and stinging related to the false belief or delusion and refuses to believe that the parasites are not there. However, when interacting and talking about other aspects of their life, their behaviour and functionality is completely normal. The psychiatric disorder must be differentiated from other conditions that may lead to abnormal sensations in the skin, (e.g. effects of cocaine or amphetamine addiction or due to a medical cause such as vitamin B12 deficiency).
MoreDermatitis Herpetiformis
Dermatitis herpetiformis is an uncommon itchy skin condition which can occur at any age. It is a specific skin change seen in coeliac disease. Most people with dermatitis herpetiformis also have the more common bowel problems associated with coeliac disease known as gluten enteropathy. If the bowel is involved, individuals often have symptoms such as bloating, cramping or diarrhoea.
MoreDermatitis Papillaris Capillitii
Dermatitis Papillaris Capillitii also known as Acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects hair follicles on the back of the neck. AKN is most commonly seen in men of African-Caribbean background but it is also seen in those of Hispanic, Asian, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean backgrounds. In rare cases, it may also be see in Caucasians. Whilst this condition mostly affects men, women may be affected in some cases (the ratio of affected men to women is 20:1). The term AKN is misleading because the condition does not form true keloid scars and is not associated with acne.
MoreDermatitis/Eczema
Dermatitis is a general term to describe a group of common conditions presenting as itchy inflammation of the skin. The term eczema is often used interchangeably with dermatitis although theoretically eczema refers to atopic eczema. There are a variety of clinical types and causes.
MoreDermatomyositis
Dermatomyositis is a condition where there is inflammation in skin, muscles and blood vessels. The condition is more common in females. It can affect children usually before the age of 10 years as well as adults usually over the age of 40 years.
MoreDermatosis Papulosa Nigra (DPN)
Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra (DPN) is a benign (harmless) condition where multiple small, brown-black, raised spots appear on the face and neck. DPN is seen most commonly in people with coloured skin (skin of colour) who are of African, Asian, Indian, or Polynesian background. DPN may be considered as cosmetically undesirable.
MoreDigital Myxoid Cysts
Also known as ... Mucous Cyst What is a Digital Myxoid Cyst? A Digital Myxoid Cyst is an entirely benign, non-cancerous swelling that usually occurs at the base of the nail on the fingers or toes. Digital Myxoid Cysts are not “catching” and they are not a sign of infection. They do not develop into skin cancer.
MoreDiscoid Eczema
Also known as ... Discoid Dermatitis What is Discoid Eczema? Discoid eczema is a common type of eczema or dermatitis with coin-shaped areas of inflammation on the limbs or torso. It is usually very itchy.
MoreDissecting Cellulitis of the Scalp
Dissecting Cellulitis of the Scalp is a rare condition in which pus-filled lumps develop on the scalp, resulting in scarring and permanent hair loss over the area affected.
MoreDrug Eruptions & Reactions
Drug reactions are unwanted and unexpected reactions occurring in the skin (and sometimes other organ systems) that may result from taking a medication for the prevention, diagnosis or treatment of a medical problem. They may appear after the correct use of the medication or drug.
MoreDry skin
Dry skin also known as Xerosis is a common condition which occurs when the outer layer of the skin becomes dehydrated. The skin loses its suppleness and small splits and/or cracks appear, followed by flaking or scales.
MoreDyshidrotic eczema
Dyshidrotic eczema also known as pompholyx, is an often recurrent and frequently extremely itchy disorder characterised by tiny blisters and bumps on the sides of fingers, toes, palms and soles.
MoreDystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa
Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB) is one of the main types of epidermolysis bullosa (EB). This group of inherited skin fragility disorders is characterised by blistering of the skin and body linings with minimal injury.
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