Four Common Types of Skin Diseases and Disorders

Do you have an irritating rash that never seems to go away?  Are you concerned that you spend too much time in the sun?  Do you have a family history of skin disease?  Whether you have a family history or not, you may still suffer from a skin disease or disorder that require medical attention from a trained dermatologist.  As a dermatology pathology lab service in Dallas, TX, we help many dermatologists by providing them with quality and timely diagnostic testing services.  We test for a range of different disorders.  These are some of the most common types of skin diseases and disorders that many dermatology patients suffer from.

Dermatitis

Typically, dermatitis is categorized by skin inflammation that appears to be red and swollen.  If it is uncomfortable, dry, or irritating, you will want to see a doctor for treatment options.  Typically, dermatitis can be treated with topical prescription of over-the-counter creams, oils, and lotions.  However, in some more severe cases, you may have sores, rashes, or poor blood circulation that creates larger issues.

Skin Cancers

One of the most common reasons that you may need to have a skin biopsy is to rule out a skin cancer diagnosis.  From basal cell carcinoma to melanoma, there are a few different types of skin cancer that you will want to test for.  By engaging in frequent skin check-ups, you will be able to increase the likelihood that cancers are caught in their early stages.  Early detection is the best preventative measure when you are concerned about the threat of cancer, as you can catch it and treat it before it spreads throughout your body.

Actinic Keratosis

These rough, scaly patches develop on the skin from having years of exposure to the sun.  Actinic keratosis typically appears after the age of 40 in individuals that have spent many hours in the sun.  When detected early, this skin condition can be treated.  However, if it is left untreated, it can develop into skin cancer in roughly 5-10% of patients.

Skin Infections

Common skin infections include cellulitis, impetigo, furuncles, and folliculitis.  These diseases are caused by different strains of bacteria, and they differ in their severity and symptoms.  Cellulitis, for example, is painful and spreading rash-like skin condition that is warm to the touch.  It also might cause a fever.  When you suspect that you are suffering from a skin infection, your dermatologist will want to test skin samples to determine whether you need antibiotics or other medications to treat the disease.

These are four of the most common types of skin disorders or diseases that many patients suffer from.  When you are concerned about your skin, an irritating rash, or a strange-colored mole, you'll want to send your skin samples to our dermatology pathology lab service in Dallas, TX for complete testing.  Contact us to hear about our lab testing services today.