It runs in families, and individuals with lighter complexions are at greatest risk. Mohs Surgery is a microscopically controlled excision of a lesion where each bit of tissue removed is mapped and examined under the microscope to determine the site and extent of malignant cells before more tissue is removed. Molluscum Contagiosum is a common contagious viral infection of the skin characterized by tiny pearl-like projections with a core of white matter. The allergic reaction is characterized by redness, blisters, and itching. Psoriasis is a common skin disease in which portions of the skin are covered with dry, red patches with silvery scales.
Common sites are the trunk, knees, elbows, and scalp.
The disease can be triggered by a variety of stresses to the body and is characterized by flare-ups and partial remissions. Radiation Therapy can destroy cancerous tissue and is useful in certain types of skin cancer, as well as in selected individuals for whom surgery is not possible. Ringworm is a fungal infection showing as itchy, red, scaly, slightly raised, expanding rings on the trunk, face or groin area. Pimples and pustules may also occur, and in some patients enlargement of the oil glands of the nose results in enlargement of the nose, or rhinophyma. Scleroderma is a progressive systemic disorder with associated thickening and tightening of the skin, especially on the arms, face, and hands, and resulting loss of flexibility.