Mnemonics - Dermatology

SKINS

Specialised sensory innervation/Synthesise Vitamin D/Secretes pheromonesfor Sex

K Keeps out unwanted molecules, microbes or radiation/Keeps in water,electrolytes and solutes

I Immunological function; contains antigen-presenting cells

N Normalises heat regulation

CONTACTC

• Cutaneous type IV reaction
• O Ointments and cosmetics containing lanolin
• N Nickel
• T Topical antibiotics can cause it (e.g. neomycin)
• A Autosensitisation can occur (secondary spread elsewhere)
• C Chromates (cement, leather)/Colophony (plasters, glues, inks)
• T Topical antihistamines and topical anaesthetics (haemorrhoid creams) can cause it

IMPETIGO

• ^Causes
• I Infection with Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes or both
• ^Presenting
• M Mostly in young children
• P Particularly around nose and surrounding parts of face
• E Erythematous base with honey-coloured crusts

• ^{Treatment and prevent spread}
• T Treat with Topical antibiotic such as fusidic acid for localized lesions
• I Individuals are highly contagious from skin-to-skin contact; Improve hygiene;do not share towels

• ^{Dx and systemic}
• G Gram stain and culture of swab diagnostic
• O Oral flucloxacillin required for widespread impetigo

S, CELL, C

• S Sun-exposed areas usu affected: ears, dorsum of the hands, bald scalp
• C Crusted, firm, irregular lesion

• E Excision used as treatment
• L Lower lip can be affected in smokers
• L Less likely to metastasise
• C Associated with Chronic inflammation such as venous leg ulcers