Key Terms
What is a condition in which the body’s immune system attacks normal tissue in the body?
Autoimmune condition
What is a bacterial infection affecting the skin and soft tissue?
Cellulitis
What is a skin condition caused by the dilation of capillaries on the face; causes facial redness and f lushing?
Rosacea
What is the most dangerous type of skin cancer, appearing in the melanocytes (cells that produce melanin); can spread quickly to surrounding tissues and organs?
Malignant melanoma
What is a lamp used in a darkened room to illuminate skin abnormalities using ultraviolet (UV) light?
Wood’s light
What is a type of living organism that can sometimes cause infection; Candida is a common example?
Fungus
What is bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) that have developed resistance to the antibiotic methicillin?
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
What is skin condition caused by inflammation of the sebaceous glands and skin follicles; can result in pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads?
Acne vulgaris
What is to spread from one part of the body to another?
Metastasize
What is a nutrient essential for tissue growth and repair; also supplies energy for the body?
Protein
What is an infestation of lice?
Pediculosis
What is a general sense of feeling unwell?
Malaise
What is a general term to describe a disease in which abnormal cells grow in an uncontrolled way?
Cancer
What is a type of injury to the skin?
Wound
What is a type of nutrient that helps the body store energy; fats also add flavor to food and are important for the absorption of certain vitamins?
Fat
What is a skin infection caused by a mite called Sarcoptes scabiei?
Scabies
What is to surgically remove?
Excise
What is the most common form of skin cancer, affecting the basal cells of the epidermis; usually appears in areas that have been exposed to the sun?
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
What is in medicine, capable of healing without treatment?
Self-limiting
What is a mild skin infection caused by either streptococci or staphylococci?
Impetigo
What is a skin rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) that causes pain, tingling, itching, and a rash of blood-filled blisters?
Shingles
What is a form of skin cancer occurring in the squamous cells on the outer surface of the epidermis; less common but more likely to spread than basal cell carcinoma?
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
What is a circular lens that magnifies skin lesions for closer inspection?
Dermatoscope