A to Z Category Archives:

What is it? 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. There are four main types of EB which are defined by the depth at which the skin becomes blistered. […]

What is it? 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. It may also appear due to overdose […]

What is it? Also known as … Discoid Dermatitis 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. What causes it? The cause of discoid eczema is unknown. Some people have conditions related to eczema such as hay fever […]

What is it? 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. What causes it? The cause is unknown, although it is most likely due to blocked and ruptured hair follicles, resulting in significant inflammation and […]

What is it? Also known as … Mucous 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. What […]

What is it? 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. What causes […]

What is it? 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. What causes it? The cause of dermatomyositis is unknown. […]

What is it? 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. What does it look like? Acute dermatitis is […]

What is it? 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 […]