Different Types of Skin Diseases and Their Causes
Skin diseases are caused by inflammation in the skin. This includes skin cancer, infection, and parasitic infestation. Let’s explore some of these different types of skin disease and their causes. These types of diseases are related to various causes, including genetics and environmental factors. Heredity can affect the expression of some diseases, while other factors, such as stress and sunlight, can affect others.
Inflammation causes skin diseases
When you experience skin inflammation, you are experiencing a response from your body’s immune system. This can manifest itself as redness, heat, sensitivity, swelling, and other symptoms. Inflammation can result from an acute skin infection or a chronic condition like psoriasis. Treatment varies depending on the cause. Inflammation of the skin can be caused by bacteria that enter the skin through a wound. It can also be the result of allergic reactions.
Inflammation causes skin diseases that include acne and eczema. Certain diets and lifestyles can trigger skin inflammation in people with certain skin conditions. Genetics and environmental factors can also trigger an immune response. Likewise, exposure to sunlight while taking certain medications can lead to photosensitivity. During severe photosensitivity, the skin becomes red and inflamed.
Skin inflammation can also result from bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. Inflammation of the skin can result in rashes that are uncomfortable and sometimes even serious. Some cases can be treated at home, but other conditions may require a visit to a healthcare provider. A healthcare provider will perform an exam to confirm the diagnosis.
Infections
Bacterial infections of the skin are a common problem, but they are treatable and often harmless. They are the result of bacteria that enter the body through breaks in the skin, such as scratches. Symptoms of these infections can include redness, swelling, pain, and pus. Although most of these infections are treatable, some are not and can be dangerous, causing severe problems. Because bacterial infections can spread, prevention is key.
Bacterial infections of skin can cause abscesses, which are infection-producing pustules. These infections are caused by bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus, which enter through skin injuries. Another skin disease caused by bacteria is acanthosis nigricans, which causes abnormal thickening of the skin. It is most common in people with underlying health problems, but it can also occur in people taking certain medications.
Fungal infections of the skin are also common and can be contagious. People who sweat excessively are at a greater risk for getting them. Additionally, skin infections are common because of the clothing we wear. Moreover, bacteria can enter the deeper layers of skin through cuts. In addition, tiny organisms and insects can also enter the skin.
Skin cancers
Skin cancer is a serious disease that can occur anywhere on the body. It is most commonly found on areas that are exposed to sunlight, such as the face, arms, or legs. However, it can also develop in less-exposed areas. In these cases, skin cancer may appear as a hard, pink lesion. Sometimes, the lesion may spread to other parts of the body, such as the genital area. Different types of skin cancers are related to their location.
Skin cancers develop when cells on the skin multiply uncontrollably. Normally, skin cells replace dead ones by producing new ones. However, when certain cells in the skin are damaged or abnormal, they can multiply rapidly, leading to skin cancer. These abnormal cells may be non-cancerous or cancerous, and they may spread to other parts of the body or nearby tissue. If caught early, skin cancer can be treated successfully.
The most common type of skin cancer is basal cell cancer. About 80 percent of skin cancers are basal cell carcinomas, while the other 20 percent are squamous cell cancers. These types of skin cancers are usually found on exposed areas of the body, such as the face or hands. These cancers can be life-threatening without treatment.
Parasites
Epidermal parasitic skin diseases (EPSD) are common in most countries and impose a significant health and economic burden. The objective of this study was to evaluate the current state of knowledge regarding the epidemiology of EPSD in humans and to identify areas of need for future research. While the prevalence of these diseases varies among countries and geographical areas, they are often associated with poor hygiene and poverty.
These diseases are caused by parasites that live on the upper layers of the skin. The interactions between the host and parasite are confined to the upper cap of the skin. They include escabiosis, pediculosis, tungiasis, and poliparasitismo. Despite the prevalence of parasitic diseases in developing countries, fewer people seek medical attention for them. This can be attributed to poverty and a lack of access to health care facilities.
Parasites cause a variety of conditions, and it is difficult to diagnose a particular infection with certainty. It’s possible to have a parasite without any symptoms for a long time, but the infection may still be transmittable to another person. Depending on the type of parasite and its location, doctors may prescribe a treatment that kills the parasite and alleviates symptoms. Treatment options can include metronidazole (Flagyl), ivermectin (Stromectol), and other drugs that target specific areas of the body.
