Free Medical Study

DERMATOLOGY - Mnemonics

Skin 
Functions of the skin 
Mnemonic: SKIN 
S         Specialised sensory innervation/Synthesise Vitamin D/Secretes pheromones
for 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 


Common allergens for allergic contact dermatitis 
Mnemonic: CONTACT 
C         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 

Infestations 
Clinical presentation of impetigo 
Mnemonic: IMPETIGO
I           Infection with Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes or both 
M         Mostly in young children 
P         Particularly around nose and surrounding parts of face 
E         Erythematous base with honey-coloured crusts 
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 
G         Gram stain and culture of swab diagnostic 
O         Oral flucloxacillin required for widespread impetigo 

Squamous cell carcinoma 
Clinical presentation 
Mnemonic: S, CELL, C 
S         Sun-exposed areas are usually 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