Dermatology Glossary

A non-invasive diagnostic technique using a handheld illuminated magnifier to examine skin lesions at 10× magnification.

The normal or pathological shedding of the outermost layers of the skin (stratum corneum) in scales or sheets.

Acronym for dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, a rare low-grade malignant fibroblastic tumour of the dermis with a high lo...

Dermatology Life Quality Index; a validated 10-item questionnaire measuring the impact of skin disease on a patient's qu...

A topical preparation that moisturises and softens the skin by reducing transepidermal water loss, forming the cornersto...

The clinical term for freckles — small, flat, tan or light-brown macules caused by localised increases in melanin produc...

The skin's capacity to prevent transepidermal water loss and block entry of irritants, allergens, and pathogens through...

A clinical sign in dermatology named after the physician who first described it, requiring consistent capitalisation of...

An acute immune-mediated skin reaction characterised by target (iris) lesions, most commonly triggered by herpes simplex...

A reactive inflammatory panniculitis presenting as tender, erythematous nodules typically on the anterior shins, often i...

A superficial bacterial skin infection caused by Corynebacterium minutissimum, presenting as well-demarcated, brownish-r...

A severe generalised skin condition characterised by redness and scaling affecting more than 90% of the body surface are...

A secondary skin lesion consisting of a linear or angular superficial abrasion caused by scratching or picking.

A six-point numerical classification system for human skin colour based on its response to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, r...

A structured aggregate of activated macrophages (epithelioid cells), often with multinucleated giant cells, forming in r...

A chronic, recurrent inflammatory skin disease affecting apocrine gland-bearing areas, characterised by painful nodules,...

A three-stage clinical classification system for hidradenitis suppurativa severity, ranging from Stage I (isolated absce...

Abnormal thickening of the outermost layer of the skin (stratum corneum) due to excess keratin production.

An alphanumeric classification code from the International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision, used to record dia...

A heterogeneous group of inherited or acquired skin disorders characterised by generalised scaling resembling fish scale...

The International Hidradenitis Suppurativa Severity Score System, a validated numerical scoring tool that quantifies act...

An allergy skin test in which a small volume of allergen is injected directly into the dermis to detect immediate or del...

Direct injection of a therapeutic agent, most commonly a corticosteroid, into a skin lesion to achieve localised treatme...

An oral retinoid used in the treatment of severe nodular acne, known for its teratogenicity and mandatory pregnancy prev...