Clinical Pharmacology: Describing, Diagnosing, & Treatment Of Skin, Eye, & Ear Disorders

Full Answer Section

       

• • Contact dermatitis: Irritant or allergic reaction from contact with a substance.
  • Seborrheic dermatitis: Greasy, red, and scaly patches on scalp, face, and upper chest.
• Treatment Modalities: Treatment depends on the type and severity of dermatitis. Common approaches include:
  • Moisturizers: Emollients and moisturizers help hydrate and soothe the skin.
  • Corticosteroids: Topical steroids reduce inflammation and itching.
  • Calcineurin inhibitors: Topical medications for moderate to severe eczema.
  • Lifestyle changes: Identifying and avoiding triggers like allergens or irritants.

Conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear tissue lining the eyelids and covering the eyeball.

• Drug Therapy: Treatment depends on the cause:
  • Viral conjunctivitis: Usually resolves on its own with supportive care like artificial tears.
  • Bacterial conjunctivitis: Antibiotic eye drops are prescribed.
  • Allergic conjunctivitis: Antihistamine eye drops or oral antihistamines may be used.

Otitis Media: Otitis media is an inflammation of the middle ear.

• Drug Therapy: Treatment depends on the cause (bacterial or viral) and severity:
  • Bacterial otitis media: Antibiotics are prescribed.
  • Viral otitis media: Usually resolves on its own with pain management (acetaminophen or ibuprofen).

Herpes Virus Infections: Herpes viruses cause various infections characterized by blisters or ulcers. Here are some common types:

• Herpes simplex virus (HSV): Causes cold sores (HSV-1) or genital herpes (HSV-2).
• Varicella-zoster virus (VZV): Causes chickenpox (primary infection) and shingles (reactivation).
• Epstein-Barr virus (EBV): Causes infectious mononucleosis.
• Patient Presentation: Symptoms vary depending on the virus and location of infection. Common presentations include:
  • Blisters or ulcers on the skin or mucous membranes
  • Fever, fatigue, and headache
  • Pain or burning sensation at the infection site
• Treatment: Antiviral medications can shorten the duration and severity of symptoms, but do not cure most herpes infections.

Primary Bacterial Skin Infections: These are common infections caused by bacteria entering the skin through breaks or weakened areas.

• Common Types:
  • Impetigo: Superficial, highly contagious infection with honey-colored crusts.
  • Boils and carbuncles: Deeper, painful infections with pus-filled centers.
  • Cellulitis: Rapidly spreading infection of the deeper skin layers, causing redness, swelling, and pain.
• Treatment of Choice: Antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment, typically administered orally or topically depending on the severity.

Sample Answer

     

Skin Conditions and Infections: Diagnosis and Treatment

Dermatitis:

Dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin, causing irritation, redness, dryness, and itching. Here's a breakdown of diagnosis and treatment:

• Diagnostic Criteria: Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination by a dermatologist. Biopsies may be taken in some cases to rule out other conditions. Common types of dermatitis include:
  • Atopic dermatitis (eczema): Chronic, itchy rash with flares, often starting in childhood.