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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Café-au-lait Macules
Also known as ... Cafe-au-lait Spots, Brown Birthmarks Café-au-lait macules (CALMs) are benign well-circumscribed, flat, uniformly light to dark brown spots with a characteristic ‘coffee-with-milk’ colour. CALMs are very common and are seen in 10–20% of the normal population. In rare cases, they may be a sign of an underlying genetic condition.
MoreCalcific Uraemic Arteriolopathy
Also known as Calciphylaxis. Calciphylaxis is a rare and serious disorder, usually seen in individuals on treatment for severe kidney disease – typically on dialysis for end stage renal failure (ESRF).
MoreCalciphylaxis
Calciphylaxis is a rare and serious disorder, usually seen in individuals on treatment for severe kidney disease.
MoreCampbell de Morgan spots
Campbell de Morgan spots also known as cherry angiomas, are the most common blood vessel overgrowths of the skin and typically present in the third or fourth decades of life.
MoreCanker sores
Canker sores also known as Aphthous ulcers, are a common problem with a higher prevalence in high socio-economic areas.
MoreCapillaritis
Capillaritis also known as pigmented purpuric dermatosis, is an uncommon condition that affects all races and ages. It usually manifests as small or large patches of cayenne pepper coloured spots and pigmentation.
MoreCapillary malformation
Capillary malformation 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.
MoreCellulite
Cellulite is a very common condition. It is seen in almost all adult women in various degrees and can therefore be considered a normal variation of the appearance of the skin. There are many myths and misunderstandings about the causes and treatment of cellulite. The condition remains difficult to treat with few studies demonstrating impressive, long-standing results despite the “commercial hype” of advertised products.
MoreCentral Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA)
Also known as ... Hot Comb Alopecia, Follicular Degeneration Syndrome, Pseudopelade of the Central Scalp, Pseudopelade in African Americans Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) is a chronic and progressive type of scarring alopecia that results in permanent hair loss. CCCA most commonly starts in the centre of the scalp and, without treatment, expands over time causing an area of baldness. It is most commonly seen in middle-aged African women.
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