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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Balanitis & Balano-posthitis
Balanitis is inflammation of the glans penis (head or knob of the penis) due to any cause. In uncircumcised males (the foreskin or “prepuce” is still present) inflammation of both the glans and the foreskin together is called Balano-posthitis.
MoreBarber’s itch
Barber’s itch also known as Pseudofolliculitis barbae is a chronic inflammation of hair-bearing areas of the skin caused by ingrown hairs that develop after shaving or plucking.
MoreBasal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Also known as ... a Rodent Ulcer What is Basal Cell Carcinoma? Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. Fortunately it is usually the least dangerous and almost always completely curable by treatment. BCC accounts for more than three-quarters (75%) of all skin cancers. Most Basal Cell Carcinomas are slow-growing and almost never spread to other parts of the body. However, if they are left untreated they can damage or destroy the skin and surrounding tissues and cause an ulcer known as a rodent ulcer.
MoreBecker’s Naevus
Also known as ... Becker’s Melanosis Becker’s Naevus is a birthmark that appears in adolescence or the twenties as a flat brown discolouration in which darker thicker hairs may later grow. It is usually located on the shoulder, chest or back. It occurs most commonly in males.
MoreBenign lymphocytic infiltration of the skin
Benign lymphocytic infiltration of the skin also known as Jessner lymphocytic infiltrate is a benign skin condition characterised by persistent lymphocyte (immune) cells in the skin. It may be a variant of lupus erythematosus, but this remains uncertain.
MoreBlastomycosis
Blastomycosis is a very rare fungal infection caused by breathing in microscopic particles (spores) of the fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis (B. dermatitidis). Blastomycosis is not usually found in Australia. Originally it was thought to be found only in North America, but cases have been reported from many countries in the world. It occurs mostly in males who do outdoor activities and is more common in people with weakened immune systems.
MoreBowen’s Disease
Bowen’s disease is a common superficial cancer of the skin. It appears most commonly as a slow-growing, persistent red scaly patch on areas of skin exposed to the sun.
MoreBrachioradial Pruritus
Also known as ... Brachioradial Itch Brachioradial Rruritus is a skin condition where the affected person is troubled by abnormal skin sensations on the outer forearms, upper arms and occasionally on the top of the shoulder. The affected person may describe the sensations as itching, burning, prickling or stinging.
MoreBroken blood vessels or capillaries
Broken blood vessels or capillaries also known as telangiectases are superficial blood vessels, which are visible with the naked eye. The majority can be improved with laser treatment or sclerotherapy.
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