Are you noticing changes in your skin? Have you noticed bumps, spots, or other changes that weren’t there before? If so, it’s possible they are lesions and should be looked at by a medical professional.
Skin lesions are very common and can range from a harmless mole or freckle to something more serious. Lesions come in many shapes and sizes and can be caused by various factors. In this blog post, we will discuss the range of skin lesions out there, how to identify them, as well as treatments available. You’ll gain an understanding of what could be causing these changes to your skin – so read on!
Skin lesions
Skin lesions are skin disorders or diseases that can present in various forms. These skin problems range from harmless and benign to life-threatening and require medical attention. They usually take the form of bumps, sores, lumps, discolourations, blisters or ulcers on the skin’s surface. Infections, allergic reactions, skin cancer, autoimmune diseases or other skin conditions may cause skin lesions.
Lesions are often treated with topical ointments and creams depending on their cause and severity. In some cases, biopsies may be required for further diagnosis or treatment. A healthcare professional must evaluate any suspicious skin lesion as soon as possible to rule out any skin cancer or serious underlying condition.
Types of skin lesions
Here are several types of skin lesions; as well as
1) Acne
Acne is a skin lesion that manifests as an itchy, raised red or purplish bump. It typically forms in clusters and can be found on body parts such as the arms, legs, back, and stomach. These lesions may also contain tiny scales or blisters and may be painful to the touch. Acne can be caused by an allergic reaction to certain substances or infection with a bacteria or virus. Treatment usually involves:
- Taking an antihistamine to reduce itching.
- Applying a topical steroid cream.
- Using ultraviolet light therapy (phototherapy).
If the ance is severe enough, your doctor may recommend oral antibiotics to help fight any underlying infections.
2) Allergic eczema
Allergic eczema is a kind of skin condition in which the skin becomes inflamed, red, and itchy. It can manifest itself through different types of skin lesions, such as cracked or scaly patches on the skin, blisters filled with fluid, or raw areas that may have oozing or crusting.
Allergic eczema often occurs in response to an irritant like certain fabrics or soaps that come into contact with the skin. Allergy tests may be used to determine what triggers allergic eczema outbreaks so that these substances can be avoided. Treatment for allergic eczema usually involves using creams and ointments to reduce itching and inflammation.
3) Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a type of skin lesion that occurs when the skin has been in contact with an irritant or allergen. It can cause redness, swelling, dryness, cracking and blistering of the affected area. Contact dermatitis is often caused by directly contacting a household cleaning product, detergent, jewellery, fabric softener, cosmetics or even plants.
There are two types of contact dermatitis:
1) Irritant Contact Dermatitis (ICD): This form of contact dermatitis occurs when your skin is exposed to harsh chemicals such as strong soaps and detergents.
2) Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD): This form of contact dermatitis happens when your skin comes in contact with an allergen, such as a plant or certain metals.
Both types of contact dermatitis can be treated with over-the-counter medications and topical creams. In some cases, it is necessary to take oral steroids, which a doctor prescribes.
4) Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on the surface of the skin. It usually affects areas such as elbows, knees, and scalp. The symptoms of psoriasis may also include itching and burning sensations. In some cases, it can cause contact dermatitis, in which the rash becomes inflamed due to direct contact with an irritant.
People who suffer from psoriasis experience lesions forming on their skin made up of raised, red patches often covered with silvery scales. These plaques can be itchy and sore, although this varies from person to person.
5) Epidermoid cysts
Epidermoid cysts are the most common type of skin lesions. They are small, hard lumps that form under the skin and range from a few millimetres to several centimetres.
These cysts contain keratin, an oily substance found naturally in the body’s epidermis (upper layer of skin). Epidermoid cysts typically occur on sun-exposed scalp, face and chest areas.
They are not cancerous or contagious but can become irritated by friction or trauma and may be associated with certain medical conditions.
6) Cellulitis
Cellulitis is an infection of the skin. It can present as redness and swelling, particularly in areas where there are existing skin lesions. Symptoms may include warmth at the infected site, fever, aching muscles and general discomfort.
Cellulitis can affect people of any age and gender. Still, those with weakened immune systems due to underlying medical conditions or certain medications are more vulnerable to this type of infection.
If left untreated, the infection may spread further into deeper layers of tissue, causing more serious complications such as abscesses and sepsis. Early diagnosis and treatment are key for successfully managing cellulitis in skin lesions. Treatment typically involves antibiotics prescribed by a doctor, which should be taken as directed for optimal results.
7) Scabies
Scabies is a skin lesion type caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. It causes an itchy rash and skin lesions on affected areas of the body, such as between fingers and toes, armpits, hands, feet, genitals, or waist. The itchiness usually starts 4 to 6 weeks after infestation with Scabies mites and can last for several weeks.
The most common way to develop Scabies is through contact with someone who already has it. Skin-to-skin connection is enough for the infection to spread from one person to another. When Scabies infests an individual’s skin, it forms small raised bumps that may be red or yellow.
8) Bullae
Bullae are large skin lesions, typically more than 5 mm in size. They are filled with clear fluid or pus and can occur anywhere on the body, especially in areas exposed to friction or trauma. Bullae usually look like bubbles or blisters and may be painful when touched.
In general, Bullae are not normally a sign of a serious underlying health condition, but they should still be checked by a doctor in order to rule out any further complications. Treatment of Bullae depends on the cause but often involves draining them and applying antibiotic creams or ointments if needed. It is important to keep the area clean and dry to prevent potential infections from developing.
Cause of skin lesions
Here are some causes of skins lesions; as well as
1) Infections (bacterial, viral, fungal)
Skin lesions can be caused by numerous bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Bacterial infections such as impetigo can cause red sores that are itchy or weepy. Viral infections like chickenpox can cause blisters and raised bumps on the skin.
Fungal infections like ringworm may create an area of discolouration with a red scaly border. In some cases, these lesions may be accompanied by other symptoms from the underlying infection, such as fever, swelling, body aches, fatigue, or nausea.
If you have any suspicious skin lesions, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause so that appropriate treatment can be administered. Left untreated, infectious skin lesions can cause skin cancer.
2) Trauma or injury
Trauma or injury are amongst the most common causes of skin lesions. It can range from minor scrapes and bruises to deep wounds caused by animal bites, car accidents, and falls. Injury may also be inflicted deliberately, such as with cuts in self-harming behaviours.
Other causes of skin lesions include infection, inflammation, burns and chemical exposure. Allergic reactions can also cause a variety of different types of skin lesions, including hives and eczema. Skin cancer is an increasingly common cause of skin lesions due to overexposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun or tanning beds. It is important to speak with a physician if you have any lesion on your skin that does not heal.
3) Allergic reactions
Skin lesions are a symptom of an underlying problem and can be caused by Allergic reactions that affect the skin. Common causes of skin lesions include contact dermatitis, which is an allergic reaction to something that has been in contacts with the skin, such as soap or detergent.
Hives, which are red bumps that appear on the body due to an allergic reaction to a substance; eczema, which is an itchy rash caused by irritation or allergies; psoriasis, which is a chronic skin condition characterized by scaly patches on the skin; and urticaria, also known as hives, which are raised white welts on the surface of the skin caused by histamines released due to an allergic reaction.
4) Sun exposure and UV damage
Skin lesions can cause by prolonged exposure to the Sun and UV damage. This damage is most commonly seen in areas of the body that are exposed to the Sun, such as the face, neck, arms, and legs.
The ultraviolet radiation from the Sun causes changes in the skin cells, leading to premature ageing. In some cases, too much ultraviolet radiation can cause skin cancer or other forms of skin disease. Individuals with fair or light skin are especially vulnerable to sunburns and UV damage.
In order to reduce your risk of developing skin lesions due to Sun exposure and UV damage, it is important to practice good sun protection habits. Whenever possible, stay out of direct sunlight during peak hours.
5) Cancer or malignant tumours
Various factors, including abnormal growths such as cancer or malignant tumours, can cause skin lesions. Cancerous skin lesions may appear in the form of irregularly shaped patches that are typically red, purple, or brown. In some cases, these lesions may also have an open sore in the centre with a thickened border around them.
Melanoma is the most common type of skin cancer, which begins when certain cells called melanocytes produce too much pigment (melanin). Other types of skin cancers include squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma. Skin cancers can treat through various methods depending on the severity and size of the tumour. Treatment options may include surgery to remove the affected area.
6) Lifestyle factors
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are lifestyle factors that can contribute to skin lesions. Smoking cigarettes, for example, is a major risk factor for various skin diseases such as psoriasis and squamous cell carcinoma. Cigarette smoke contains over 4,000 different chemicals, many of which have been proven toxic and damaging when exposed to the skin.
Excessive amounts of alcohol also increase one’s risk of developing skin problems. Alcohol can cause dehydration and loss of essential vitamins and minerals from the body, leading to dry, itchy or inflamed patches on the skin. Additionally, alcohol-induced liver damage may lead to various skin issues due to its effect on overall health.
7) Immune system disorders like Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can cause a variety of skin lesions. These lesions can vary in size, shape, colour and location on the body.
Commonly observed skin lesions may include erythema nodosum (red patches or bumps), discoid lupus erythematosus (flat red patches) and erythema multiforme (raised, circular rash). Lupus can also cause photosensitivity which increases the risk of sunburns or rashes when exposed to UV rays.
Prevention for skin lesions
Here are some prevention for skin lesions; include
- Protecting the skin from UV radiation by using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing when spending time outdoors.
- Avoiding exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants.
- Maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated.
- Not smoking or using tobacco products.
- Managing and controlling any underlying medical conditions such as diabetes.
- Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption.
- Taking care of the skin by keeping it clean and moisturized.
- Avoiding picking or scratching at skin lesions, which can cause them to become infected or worsen.
- Practising good hygiene, like washing hands frequently.
- Being aware of any family history of skin conditions and consulting a dermatologist for regular check-ups and screenings.
- Being aware of any changes in the skin and reporting them to a healthcare professional.
- Use recommended products, not overuse skincare products
- Managing stress and getting enough sleep.
- Keeping the skin moisturized, especially in dry climates or during winter.
- Taking care of the skin gently, avoiding harsh soaps or scrubs that can irritate.
Treatment of skin lesions
- Topical creams and ointments such as antibiotics, antifungals, and corticosteroids to treat infections or inflammation.
- Oral medications such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Cryotherapy, which includes freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen.
- Electrodesiccation and curettage involve scraping off the lesion and cauterizing the area.
- Surgical excision, which involves cutting out the lesion.
- Photodynamic therapy involves applying a photosensitizing agent to the lesion and exposing it to a specific wavelength of light.
- Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells.
- Immunotherapy uses drugs to stimulate the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells.
- Laser therapy uses focused light to remove or reduce the size of a lesion.
- Cryosurgery uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal cells.
- Medicated dressings to help the healing process
- Moisturizing ointments to soothe irritated skin.
- Medicated shampoos or creams to treat scalp lesions or fungal infections.
- In some cases, the treatment may include a combination of the abovementioned techniques.
- For certain skin lesions like actinic keratosis and skin cancer, cryotherapy, topical creams, photodynamic therapy and surgery are commonly used.
- For certain types of skin cancer like melanoma, immunotherapy, targeted therapy and chemotherapy are also used.
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