The skin, also known as the integument, is the largest organ of the body. The integumentary system includes the skin, hair and nails. The skin is the body's first line of defense against infection and protects the internal organs. Many disorders can affect the skin, including infections, inflammatory diseases and cancer.
Scarlet Fever
Scarlet fever, also known as scarlatina, is an infection caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. This infection causes a distinctive red rash with tiny bumps. The rash feels like fine sandpaper when you run your hand across it. It commonly begins on the stomach and chest, and may spread to the rest of the body, including the face. The rash typically clears in two to seven days. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, other symptoms of scarlet fever include sore throat, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, fever and a white coating on the tongue. Scarlet fever is most common in children, although it can occur at any age. Doctors prescribe antibiotics to treat scarlet fever. It is important to take the antibiotics as prescribed to avoid potentially serious complications of scarlet fever, including rheumatic fever and post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes red scaly patches called plaques. The skin within the plaques grows at an accelerated rate, sending new skin cells to the surface every three to four days rather than the normal timeframe of 30 days, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Areas commonly affected by psoriasis include the scalp, knees, elbows, palms of the hands and soles of the feet. The fingernails and toenails may also be affected. The five types of psoriasis vary by the body area affected and symptoms. They include plaque, pustular, inverse, guttate and erythrodermic psoriasis. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, approximately 10 to 30 percent of people with psoriasis develop arthritis in association with the disorder. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases reports that approximately 5 million Americans have psoriasis.
Melanoma
Melanoma is a potentially deadly form of skin cancer. It arises from skin cells called melanocytes. These cells produce the substance melanin, which gives the skin its color. With melanoma, the affected melanocytes undergo genetic changes, causing them to become cancerous and grow uncontrollably. The American Academy of Dermatology warns that exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun or commercial tanning beds increases the risk for melanoma, especially among people with fair skin. The appearance of a new, growing mole or changes in an existing mole, such as variation in color, itching or bleeding, may indicate the development of melanoma. If you notice any suspicious skin lesions, have your doctor examine them. Early diagnosis and treatment of melanoma can be life-saving. The American Cancer Society reports approximately 68,700 Americans were newly diagnosed with malignant melanoma in 2009.
