Skin is the body's largest organ and functions as a shield which protects your internal organs from the outside environment. The skin remarkably complex--it is strong but flexible, waterproof, and self-repairing. Skin color is determined by two factors: the amount of a pigment called melanin in the skin, and the number of circulatory vessels supplying the skin with blood. Discoloration of the skin is the consequence of either internal or external stressors.
Cyanosis
Cyanosis, which causes the skin to assume a bluish hue, is the result of insufficient oxygenation of the skin. Cyanosis is most commonly caused by heart disease, lung disease, or exposure to cold air or water. However, cyanosis can also be the consequence of drug overdose, cyanide poisoning, or seizures. Cyanosis is a serious medical emergency. Call your physician or 911 if your skin, lips or nail beds take on a bluish tint.
Jaundice
Jaundice, most often seen in newborn infants, manifests as a yellowish tint of the skin and the whites of the eyes. Jaundice is the result of an excess of a pigment called bilirubin--a yellow pigment found in red blood cells. Infants are often jaundiced because their livers have not developed enough to rid the body of excess bilirubin. In adults, however, jaundice is often an indicator of more serious liver problems.
Dermatitis
Dermatitis is a general term which describes inflamed, swollen or itchy skin. There are several different types of dermatitis, including contact dermititis, which is the result of repeated contact with an irritant, and atopic dermititis, more commonly known as eczema. Dermatitis is not a serious condition, but it can be painful. Treatment for dermatitis depends on the type and cause, but will often include corticosteroids and wet dressings to soothe the skin.
Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a condition which causes the skin to whiten and lose its color. The condition occurs when melanocytes--the cells that produce melanin--are destroyed by the body's immune system. Vitiligo is not well understood, but appears to result from a combination genetics and environmental influences. For instance, an individual with a genetic propensity for vitiligo may not exhibit skin whitening until they are subjected to a particular emotional or physical stressor.
Freckles and Moles
Freckles and moles are both areas of high melanin pigmentation in the skin. Freckles develop as a result of sun exposure and are small, flat and red or brown. Moles are often present at birth and can be either flat or raised bumps. Freckles and moles are rarely cancerous. However, if you have a family history of skin cancer, you should have any pigmented lesions examined by a dermatologist routinely. Warning signs include changes in the lesions' shape or color, or pain.
Protection
The skin is a delicate and complex organ that protects the body and serves as an indicator of the body's internal status. Consequently, you should make every effort to protect your skin just as you would protect any other organ. The simplest way to preserve your skin's integrity is to protect it from sun exposure. Wear SPF 15 or higher sunscreen, loose clothing, broad brim hats, and sunglasses if you will be outside for any extended period of time. Discuss any changes in skin color with your physician.
