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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Naevus Comedonicus
Also known as … Comedonal Naevus, Follicular Keratotic Naevus and Pilosebaceous Naevoid Disorder. Naevus comedonicus is a rare type of epidermal nevus. A benign overgrowth derived from a hair follicle unit.
MoreNaevus fusco-caeruleus zygomaticus
Naevus fusco-caeruleus zygomaticus also known as hori’s naevus, presents as benign (harmless) blue-grey to gray-brown patchy and spotty pigmentation on the prominence of the cheeks.
MoreNaevus of Ota (NOO) and Ito (NOI)
Naevus of Ota is a pigmented birthmark that is slate-brown or blue/grey in colour. When examined under a microscope, the pigmented naevus cells are found in the deep layer of the skin (dermis).
MoreNaevus sebaceous
Naevus sebaceous is a birthmark usually seen on the scalp or face of newborns and infants. In rare cases it can be present on other areas of the body. Naevus sebaceous can be thought of as being similar to a birthmark but made up of sebaceous cells.
MoreNaevus spilus
Naevus spilus is a type of birthmark that consists of a flat brown background patch containing darker brown spots or tiny bumps.
MoreNagashima Disease
Also known as … Prurigo Pigmentosa or Keto Rash. Prurigo Pigmentosa is a rare skin condition characterised by a recurrent itchy, red rash that can leave behind a dark net like mark.
MoreNails
Nails are specialised protective plates of hard keratin (protein that helps form the nail plate) that develop from the epidermis (outermost layer of the skin) overlying the small bones at the ends of the fingers and toes.
MoreNappy rash
Nappy rash is a common, irritant dermatitis occurring in the nappy area, mostly in children under the age of two years. It is not primarily an infection or the result of poor hygiene. There are now fewer cases of severe nappy rash because of the increased use of superabsorbent disposable nappies.
MoreNecrobiosis Lipoidica
Necrobiosis lipoidica is a rare skin condition which typically affects the lower legs. It is characterized by shiny red yellow plaques which usually enlarge and persist for years.
MoreNecrolytic Migratory Erythema
Also known as … Glucagonoma Syndrome, Pseudo-glucagonoma Syndrome. Necrolytic migratory erythema (NME) is a rare, painful, eroded skin eruption that is highly associated with an underlying glucagonoma (a type of pancreatic tumour). This is why sometimes it is also called “glucagonoma syndrome”. NME usually occurs in mid-age patients. Men and women are affected equally.
MoreNeonatal acne
Neonatal acne affects babies in the first 3 months of life. About 20% of healthy newborn babies may develop superficial pustules mostly on the face but also on the neck and upper trunk
MoreNeonatal and infantile acne
Neonatal acne affects babies in the first 3 months of life. About 20% of healthy newborn babies may develop superficial pustules mostly on the face but also on the neck and upper trunk.
MoreNeonatal cephalic pustulosis
Neonatal cephalic pustulosis also known as neonatal acne affects babies in the first 3 months of life. About 20% of healthy newborn babies may develop superficial pustules mostly on the face but also on the neck and upper trunk
MoreNeonatal lupus erythematosus
Neonatal lupus is an autoimmune disease. It occurs when an antibody is transferred from the mother to the baby. The antibody can affect the baby’s skin, heart, liver, blood and brain. Neonatal lupus is rare with an incidence of 1 in 20,000 pregnancies.
MoreNeurodermatitis
Neurodermatitis also known as Lichen simplex chronicus, is characterised by thickening of the skin due to chronic rubbing or scratching. Exaggerated skin markings termed “lichenification” are common.
MoreNevus araneus
Nevus araneus also known as a Spider naevus is a common harmless vascular lesion seen in up to 10% of the population. They usually appear as single or multiple spots on the face, chest and neck areas. As the name suggests, Spider naevus has a central red spot with tiny blood vessels radiating like spider legs from the centre. Spider naevus can be safely treated with vascular lasers.
MoreNevus flammeus
Nevus flammeus also known as a port-wine stain, is a pink to red flat patch on the skin which has well-defined edges. It is a true birthmark present in 3 to 5 per 1000 newborn babies. It is permanent and its area will increase in proportion to general body growth.
MoreNon Tuberculous Mycobacteria
The most common skin infections seen in Australia are caused by members of a subgroup of mycobacteria called Atypical Mycobacteria, commonly found in soil, water and other animals.
MoreNorwegian scabies
Norwegian scabies is a more severe form of scabies. Scabies is a condition that occurs as a result of infestation with a tiny mite (parasite) called Sarcoptes scabei var hominis.
MoreNotalgia paraesthetica
Notalgia paraesthetica is a disorder where an often intense localised itch occurs without a rash on the mid to upper back between the shoulder blades. It is thought to be due to sensory nerve irritation rather than a primary skin condition. It tends to run a chronic course. There is currently no cure but there are treatments that can help control the itch.
MoreNuchal Keloid Acne
Nuchal Keloid Acne 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.
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