Any disease of the skin is called dermatosis, according to Disease.com. The skin is the largest organ, protecting the rest of the body from harmful elements. Because of its constant exposure, it is susceptible to a variety of diseases. Some skin diseases are harmful and even fatal, and others are simply annoying. Even the less physically damaging skin diseases, such as acne and eczema, can cause psychological problems, particularly for children who may suffer from self-esteem issues.
Inflammatory Skin Diseases
Some of the inflammatory skin diseases include psoriasis, eczema, acne and diaper rash. There may be redness, itching and some swelling. Occasionally, blisters may form, and infection can set in. The best way to treat inflammatory skin diseases is with topical medications that counter the itching and swelling. If the inflammation is infected, you may need to use antibiotics.
Bacterial Skin Disorders
Skin diseases may be caused by bacteria, with staph being the most common. You're more susceptible to a staph infection if you have a break in your skin that comes into contact with the bacteria.
Other types of bacterial skin diseases are impetigo, MRSA, scabies, folliculitis and necrotizing fasciitis. The symptoms of these diseases are often rashes, boils, and lesions that may or may not be lethal. Other symptoms include a fever, low blood pressure, and body aches and pains. Most bacterial skin diseases need to be treated with antibiotics.
Fungal Skin Diseases
Some of the fungal skin diseases include athlete's foot, ringworm and yeast infections. Mild cases may be treated with topical antifungal creams, ointments and sprays. If the disease becomes more severe, you may need to have your doctor prescribe oral medication. Everything that has come into contact with the fungus should be washed and disinfected before using again. This includes towels, sheets, socks and other clothing.
Skin Viruses
Viral skin diseases include warts, chicken pox, shingles, herpes type 1 and herpes type 2. All of the viral skin diseases may cause itching, burning and extreme discomfort. Medications may provide some comfort and help prevent the disease from spreading. There are no cures for either type of herpes. Chicken pox may be prevented by getting vaccinated. Those who get this disease are likely to have shingles later in life.
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is one of the most feared of all skin diseases. There are several types of skin cancer, with the most deadly one being melanoma that tends to grow quickly and invasively. The best way to prevent skin cancer is to avoid exposure to the mid-day sun and to wear protective clothing and creams. As you get older, you should have periodic skin checks to catch any problems or precancerous conditions at an early stage, when they are the most treatable.
