Category: Dermatology & nail pathology

Psoriasis

Posted on March 9, 2023 by Steve - Dermatology & nail pathology, P

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the skin and sometimes other parts of the body, including the feet. Psoriasis on the feet can cause redness, scaling, itching, and pain. It can also lead to thickening and cracking of the skin, as well as the formation of blisters.

Psoriasis on the feet can be difficult to diagnose, as it can mimic other skin conditions such as eczema, athlete’s foot, and fungal infections. A dermatologist or podiatrist can usually diagnose psoriasis on the feet by examining the affected skin and taking a medical history.

Treatment for psoriasis on the feet may include topical creams or ointments containing corticosteroids, coal tar, or vitamin D analogues. In severe cases, oral or injectable medications may be necessary. Light therapy, which involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light, may also be effective for treating psoriasis on the feet.

It is important to maintain good foot hygiene when dealing with psoriasis on the feet. This may include washing the feet daily, wearing comfortable shoes that allow for air circulation, and avoiding tight-fitting socks or shoes that can irritate the skin. It may also be helpful to moisturise the feet regularly to prevent dryness and cracking of the skin.

Overall, psoriasis on the feet can be a chronic condition that requires ongoing treatment and management to control symptoms and prevent complications. Working with a healthcare provider can help develop an individualised treatment plan that meets the specific needs of the patient.

Plantar wart

Posted on March 9, 2023 by Steve - Dermatology & nail pathology, P, Paediatrics

A plantar wart is a type of wart that grows on the bottom of the foot. It is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and is typically transmitted through direct contact with infected skin or surfaces.

Plantar warts often appear as small, hard, rough growths on the heel or ball of the foot, and may be accompanied by pain or tenderness when standing or walking. They may also have tiny black dots on the surface, which are actually small blood vessels that have grown into the wart.

Treatment options for plantar warts include topical medications, such as salicylic acid, which can help to dissolve the wart over time. Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen, may also be used to destroy the affected tissue.

In some cases, surgical removal of the wart may be necessary, particularly if conservative treatments are not effective or if the wart is causing significant pain or discomfort. This may involve excision of the wart, laser therapy, or other surgical procedures.

It is important to avoid picking or scratching at plantar warts, as this can spread the virus to other areas of the foot or to other people. Good foot hygiene, including regular washing and drying of the feet, can also help to prevent the spread of HPV and reduce the risk of plantar warts.

Paronychia

Posted on March 9, 2023 by Steve - Dermatology & nail pathology, Infections, P

Paronychia is a common infection of the skin surrounding the nail bed. It can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms. Here are some key facts about paronychia:

Causes:

Paronychia is usually caused by an injury or damage to the skin around the nail bed, which can allow bacteria or fungi to enter and cause an infection.
People who bite their nails or have a habit of picking at the skin around the nails are at higher risk of developing paronychia.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of paronychia include pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness around the nail bed.
The affected area may also be warm to the touch and may produce pus or other drainage.

Diagnosis:

A diagnosis of paronychia is usually made based on the appearance of the affected area and the patient’s medical history.
In some cases, a culture or other laboratory tests may be done to identify the specific microorganism causing the infection.

Treatment:

Treatment for paronychia depends on the severity and cause of the infection.
Mild cases may be treated with warm soaks and topical antibiotics.
More severe or persistent cases may require oral antibiotics or drainage of any abscesses or collections of pus.

Prognosis:

With prompt and appropriate treatment, most cases of paronychia resolve without complications.
However, if left untreated or if the infection spreads, complications such as cellulitis or osteomyelitis (infection of the bone) can occur.
People with recurrent or chronic paronychia may need to modify their habits or seek treatment for underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the problem.

Malignant melanoma of the foot

Posted on March 9, 2023 by Steve - Cancer, Dermatology & nail pathology, M

Malignant melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can develop on the foot. It can occur on any part of the foot, including the soles, nails, and between the toes. The signs and symptoms of melanoma of the foot include:

A new mole, bump, or spot on the foot that is changing in size, shape, or colour
A sore that does not heal
A pigmented band that runs under the nail and extends onto the adjacent skin
A dark spot or streak that grows in size or changes in colour
A nodule, lump, or bump on the foot that is not painful but keeps growing

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms on your foot, you should see a podiatrist or dermatologist for evaluation. Early detection and treatment are important for the successful management of melanoma of the foot.

Lichen planus

Posted on March 9, 2023 by Steve - Dermatology & nail pathology, L

Lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes. It can appear anywhere on the body, but is most commonly found on the wrists, ankles, and lower back. Here are some key facts about lichen planus:

Causes:

The exact cause of lichen planus is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the skin and mucous membranes.
Certain medications, such as beta-blockers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can trigger an outbreak of lichen planus in some people.

Symptoms:

Lichen planus typically appears as small, flat-topped, itchy, reddish-purple bumps or spots on the skin or mucous membranes.
In some cases, the bumps may develop into blisters or open sores.
Lichen planus can also affect the nails, causing ridges, grooves, and thinning.

Diagnosis:

A diagnosis of lichen planus is usually made based on the appearance of the skin or mucous membrane lesions.
In some cases, a skin biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment:

Treatment for lichen planus depends on the severity of the condition and the location of the lesions.
Mild cases may not require treatment, but topical or oral corticosteroids, retinoids, or immunosuppressive medications may be prescribed for more severe cases.
Symptomatic relief measures, such as cool compresses and oatmeal baths, can help relieve itching and discomfort.

Prognosis:

Lichen planus is a chronic condition, but it typically resolves on its own within 6-12 months.
In some cases, lichen planus can cause scarring or permanent changes in skin colour or texture.
Rarely, lichen planus can affect the oesophagus, genitals, or other internal organs, leading to more serious complications.

Laser for nail fungus

Posted on March 8, 2023 by Steve - Dermatology & nail pathology, L, Other

Laser treatment is a relatively new approach for treating nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis. The laser emits a focused beam of light that is absorbed by the pigment in the nail and heats up the fungal cells, causing them to be destroyed. Laser treatment for nail fungus is typically done in a podiatrist’s office and can take up to several sessions to complete.

While there have been some promising results with laser treatment for nail fungus, it is important to note that it is not a guaranteed cure and may not work for everyone. Additionally, the procedure can be quite expensive and is generally not covered by insurance. It is also important to note that laser treatment for nail fungus is not currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), although some laser devices have been cleared for use in treating nail fungus.

If you are considering laser treatment for nail fungus, it is important to consult with a qualified podiatrist who can help determine if it is the right option for you and answer any questions you may have.

Kaposi’s sarcoma

Posted on March 8, 2023 by Steve - Cancer, Dermatology & nail pathology, K

Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) is a rare type of cancer that affects the cells that line the blood vessels or lymphatic vessels. KS can occur in several forms, including classic, endemic, iatrogenic, and epidemic (or AIDS-related) KS. Here are some key facts about Kaposi’s sarcoma:

Causes:

Kaposi’s sarcoma is caused by a type of herpes virus called human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8), also known as Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV).
Risk factors for developing Kaposi’s sarcoma include having a weakened immune system, being infected with HIV, and being of Mediterranean or African descent.

Symptoms:

Kaposi’s sarcoma usually appears as patches or nodules on the skin, which may be red, purple, or brown.
The lesions may be flat or raised and may itch or be painful.
KS can also affect other parts of the body, such as the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, and lymph nodes.

Diagnosis:

A biopsy is the only way to definitively diagnose Kaposi’s sarcoma.
During a biopsy, a small sample of the affected tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to determine if cancerous cells are present.

Treatment:

Treatment for Kaposi’s sarcoma depends on the type and extent of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health.
Treatments may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy.
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) may also be used to treat Kaposi’s sarcoma in people who are infected with HIV.

Prognosis:

The prognosis for Kaposi’s sarcoma varies depending on the type and extent of the cancer and the patient’s overall health.
In people with AIDS-related KS, the prognosis is generally worse than in other forms of the disease, as the cancer may be more aggressive and difficult to treat. However, with appropriate treatment, many people with Kaposi’s sarcoma are able to manage the disease and live for many years.

Ingrown toenails in children

Posted on March 8, 2023 by Steve - Dermatology & nail pathology, I, Paediatrics

Ingrown toenails can also affect children and can be caused by factors such as genetics, improper trimming of the toenails, or wearing tight-fitting shoes. Here are some tips for dealing with ingrown toenails in children:

Soak the affected foot in warm water for 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times a day. This can help to reduce pain and swelling.
Gently massage the affected area to help reduce swelling.
Apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
Encourage your child to wear comfortable shoes that provide plenty of room for their toes.
Make sure your child’s toenails are trimmed straight across and avoid rounding the corners.
If the ingrown toenail is causing severe pain or is showing signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or pus, it is important to see a podiatrist for proper treatment.
Do not attempt to cut or dig out the ingrown toenail yourself, as this can cause further injury or infection.

Prevention is key in avoiding ingrown toenails in children. Encourage your child to wear properly-fitting shoes and to trim their toenails straight across. If you notice any signs of an ingrown toenail, take action early to prevent the problem from worsening.

Ingrown toenails

Posted on March 8, 2023 by Steve - Dermatology & nail pathology, I

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. Here are some do’s and don’ts for dealing with ingrown toenails:

Do’s:

Soak the affected foot in warm water for 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times a day.
Gently massage the affected area to help reduce swelling.
Apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
Wear comfortable shoes that provide plenty of room for your toes.
Trim your toenails straight across and avoid rounding the corners.

Don’ts:

Don’t attempt to cut or dig out the ingrown toenail yourself, as this can cause infection and make the problem worse.
Don’t wear tight-fitting shoes that squeeze your toes.
Don’t wear high heels, as they can put pressure on your toes.
Don’t ignore the problem, as it can lead to a more serious infection.

If the ingrown toenail is causing severe pain or is showing signs of infection, such as pus or drainage, it is important to see a podiatrist for proper treatment. They may recommend antibiotics or, in severe cases, surgery to remove the affected nail.

Fungal nails

Posted on March 8, 2023 by Steve - Dermatology & nail pathology, F

Fungal nails, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition caused by a fungal infection in the nails. It is most commonly seen in toenails, but can also affect fingernails. Fungal nails can be caused by a variety of factors, including wearing tight-fitting shoes, walking barefoot in public places such as locker rooms and swimming pools, and having a weakened immune system.

Symptoms of fungal nails may include:

Thickened or discoloured nails
Brittle or crumbly nails
Distorted or misshapen nails
Foul odour from the affected nail
Separation of the nail from the nail bed in severe cases

If you suspect you have fungal nails, it is important to see your healthcare provider for an evaluation. Treatment may depend on the severity of the infection and may include:

Anti-fungal medication: Your healthcare provider may prescribe oral or topical anti-fungal medication to kill the fungus causing the infection.
Laser therapy: In some cases, laser therapy may be used to treat fungal nails.
Removal of the affected nail: In severe cases, your healthcare provider may recommend removing the affected nail to promote healing.
Prevention: To prevent fungal nails, it is important to practice good foot hygiene, wear clean socks and shoes, and avoid walking barefoot in public places.

It is important to seek prompt medical attention for fungal nails to prevent further complications and ensure proper treatment. In some cases, untreated fungal nails can lead to more serious infections and may even cause permanent damage to the nail or nail bed.