Skin diseases

Melanoma (skin cancer)

Symptoms of Melanoma

Appearance of a new suspicious mole
Changes in an existing mole (shape, size, color)
Asymmetry or irregular borders of a mole
Color changes: black, red, white, or blue areas
Diameter greater than 6 mm
Rapid growth or bleeding of the mole
Itching or pain in the lesion area

Treatment of Melanoma

Complete surgical excision of the lesion
Biopsy to determine the stage of the cancer
Wide excision if necessary (safety margin)
Chemotherapy or immunotherapy for advanced stages
Radiotherapy in specific cases
Regular dermatological follow-up after treatment

📌 Summary

Definition: Melanoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigmentation. It can quickly spread to other organs if not detected early.
Population affected: Adults of all ages, especially fair-skinned individuals exposed to sunlight or artificial UV rays. Men are more commonly affected on the trunk, women on the legs.
Common causes: Excessive sun exposure or tanning bed use, family history of melanoma, fair skin, repeated sunburns, presence of numerous atypical moles.

Prevention of Melanoma

Avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Use high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Wear a hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing
Do not use artificial tanning beds
Regularly monitor the appearance of moles
See a dermatologist if in doubt

Severe psoriasis

Symptoms of Severe Psoriasis

Thick red plaques on the skin, often covered with silvery scales
Intense itching, burning, or pain
Widespread involvement: more than 10% of body surface area
Lesions located on elbows, knees, scalp, lower back
Thickened, deformed, or ridged nails
Fatigue or significant psychological impact (anxiety, isolation)
Sometimes associated with joint pain (psoriatic arthritis)

Treatment of Severe Psoriasis

Topical creams based on corticosteroids or vitamin D derivatives
Phototherapy (controlled exposure to UVB or UVA)
Systemic medications: methotrexate, cyclosporine, retinoids
Targeted biotherapies (anti-TNF, anti-IL-17, anti-IL-23)
Moisturizing and keratolytic care to soothe the skin
Regular dermatological follow-up and treatment adjustment
Psychological support if necessary

📌 Summary

Definition: Severe psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by thick red plaques covered with silvery scales. It can affect large areas of the body and significantly impact quality of life.
Affected population: Adults aged 20 to 60, but it can also affect children. Severe forms are more common in patients with a family history or associated autoimmune diseases.
Common causes: Genetic factors, stress, infections, certain medications, alcohol, tobacco, hormonal or climatic changes. The immune system mistakenly attacks skin cells.

Prevention of Severe Psoriasis Flare-Ups

Avoid triggering factors (stress, infections, certain medications)
Maintain good skin hydration
Reduce alcohol and tobacco consumption
Adopt a balanced and anti-inflammatory diet
Avoid excessive scratching and skin trauma
Practice stress management techniques (yoga, relaxation, etc.)
Regularly consult a dermatologist to monitor the condition

Dermatoses

Symptoms: Dermatoses

Appearance of red or scaly patches on the skin
Persistent or intense itching
Dry, cracked, or inflamed skin
Presence of vesicles, blisters, or crusts
Sensitivity or pain when touched
Abnormal coloration of certain skin areas

Treatment: Dermatoses

Use of corticosteroid creams or ointments to reduce inflammation
Antihistamines in cases of severe itching
Regular moisturizing care to restore the skin barrier
Avoidance of identified allergens or irritants
Antifungal or antibacterial treatments depending on the cause
Phototherapy in chronic or resistant cases

📌 Summary

Definition: Dermatoses encompass all skin diseases, whether inflammatory, infectious, allergic, or autoimmune. They can manifest through skin eruptions, itching, redness, or visible lesions.
Affected population: Everyone can be affected, regardless of age. Some dermatoses are more common in children (eczema), while others affect adults more often (psoriasis, acne, seborrheic dermatitis).
Common causes: Bacterial or viral infections, allergic reactions, stress, immune disorders, poor hygiene, exposure to chemicals or allergens.

Prevention: Dermatoses

Avoid skin irritants (harsh soaps, perfumes)
Regularly moisturize the skin with suitable creams
Wear cotton clothing to reduce friction
Reduce stress, which can worsen some skin conditions
Consult a dermatologist if symptoms persist
Monitor and promptly treat any suspicious skin lesions