Your skin, with a surface area of about two square yards, protects the body from infections, regulates body temperature and senses the conditions of the outside world. Irritants, diseases, bacteria and genetics cause skin disorders such as eczema, rashes, infections, cancer and itching. A dermatologist specializes in the treatment of all disorders of the skin.
Dermatitis Herpetiformis
Dermatitis herpetiformis, also known as Duhring's disease, is a chronic, itchy rash. Symptoms include bumps or blisters on the back, buttocks, elbows and knees, as reported by the University of Maryland Medical Center. Even though the actual cause is unknown, dermatitis herpetiformis and gluten sensitivity in the small bowel appear related. Tests to determine a diagnosis of dermatitis herpitiformis includes a skin biopsy and an intestinal biopsy. The first symptoms of dermatitis herpetiformis most commonly occur in people over the age of 20 years old. Treatment includes the antibiotic dapsone and a gluten-free diet.
Herpes Simplex
Herpes simplex, as reported by Disabled World, is a virus affecting more than 50 million people in the United States. Oral herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), known as cold sores, affects the lips and mouth. The first symptoms include a tingling feeling in the lip followed by a blister outbreak. Treatment with docosanol shortens the duration of the outbreak. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen provides symptomatic pain relief. Genital herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2), more commonly known as herpes, affects the genital area. Symptoms include tingling, itching and burning followed by an outbreak of sores or blisters. Direct contact spreads both types of herpes simplex.
Sebaceous Cyst
A sebaceous cyst, also known as epidermal, epidermoid and keratin cyst, is a slow-growing lump found under the skin, as reported by the Cleveland Clinic. This cyst appears most commonly on the neck, face or trunk. An oily or cheese-like substance fills the cyst. Symptoms, in addition to the lump, include tenderness and inflammation around the cyst. Most sebaceous cysts require no treatment; however, surgical removal remains an option for large or inflamed cysts.
Cellulitis
The University of Virginia Health System defines cellulitis as a bacterial infection of the skin, usually on the face, arms and legs. The infection goes deep into the skin. Causes include Group A hemolytic Streptococcus, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus. Symptoms of cellulitis include pain, swelling, tenderness, warmth, blisters and red streaks on the skin. Other indicators include fever, weakness, headache and chills. Symptoms of red, inflamed skin and fever, or a breakout in locations around the eyes or ears, indicate the need for immediate medical attention.
