DERMATOLOGY & SKIN DISORDERS
Our skin is the largest organ of the body and is constantly exposed to environmental factors that can lead to various disorders. Skin conditions such as psoriasis, scabies, and eczema are quite common and can significantly affect comfort, appearance, and quality of life.
In this guide, we will understand three major skin disorders — Psoriasis, Scabies, and Eczema — along with their causes, types, symptoms, and management strategies.
Psoriasis:
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. This causes rapid multiplication of skin cells, resulting in thick, red, scaly patches known as plaques.
Common Types of Psoriasis:
- Plaque psoriasis
- Inverse psoriasis
- Guttate psoriasis
- Pustular psoriasis
- Erythrodermic psoriasis
Causes and Triggers:
Psoriasis has a genetic basis and may be triggered by several external factors such as stress, infections, cold weather, and certain medications.
- Stress
- Skin injury or infection
- Cold weather
- Certain drugs
- Infections
Symptoms:
- Red inflamed skin patches
- Silvery scales
- Itching and burning
- Dry cracked skin
- Nail changes
Management of Psoriasis:
Non-Pharmacological:
- Regular use of moisturizers
- Avoid triggers
Pharmacological Treatment:
- Topical steroids
- Vitamin D analogues
- Retinoids
- Phototherapy
- Systemic drugs in severe cases
Scabies:
What is Scabies?
Scabies is a contagious skin infestation caused by mites that burrow into the skin, causing intense itching and rash.
Symptoms:
- Severe itching (especially at night)
- Rash and burrows
- Red bumps
Management:
- Permethrin cream
- Antihistamines
- Hygiene and washing clothes
Eczema (Dermatitis):
What is Eczema?
Eczema is a condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin due to a weakened skin barrier.
Symptoms:
- Dry itchy skin
- Red patches
- Cracks and scaling
Management:
- Moisturizers
- Topical steroids
- Avoid irritants
Summary:
Skin disorders like psoriasis, scabies, and eczema require proper management with lifestyle care and medications to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
Dr. Saint Paul is a pharmacy educator, Pharm.D graduate, and academic content creator from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Kakinada (JNTUK), where he completed his Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) degree between 2015 and 2021.
He has more than 7 years of experience creating pharmacy educational content, writing study materials, and reviewing academic articles for pharmacy students. He has also contributed guest articles to pharmacy education platforms, including PharmD Guru.
At D.PharmGuru, his work focuses on simplifying complex Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharmacy) subjects into easy-to-understand notes, practical explanations, and exam-oriented educational resources for students across India.
His areas of focus include Human Anatomy and Physiology, Pharmaceutics, Pharmacology, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Hospital and Clinical Pharmacy, and other core D.Pharmacy subjects.
