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Who is at highest risk for Jock itch ? | Jock itch occurs mostly in adult men and adolescent boys. It can sometimes accompany athlete's foot and ringworm. The fungus that causes jock itch thrives in warm, moist areas. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Jock itch ? | Call your doctor if jock itch does not respond to home care after 2 weeks, or you have other symptoms. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Jock itch (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Jock itch usually responds promptly to treatment. It is often less severe than other tinea infections, but may last a long time.
Jock itch usually stays around the creases in the upper thigh and does not involve the scrotum or penis. Jock itch may spread to the anus, causing anal itching and discomfort.
Other causes of itching in the groin include:
Lichen simplex chronicus Eczema Pubic lice Chemical irritation | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Kaposi's sarcoma? | Usual symptoms include skin and internal organs.
Lesions in skin: The lesions can develop anywhere on the body, but most often on the legs, nose, the feet. Typical lesions begin as flat or slightly raised pink or red spots. With the development of the disease, the color of the lesions may be change into blue, purple, or brown.
Lesions in mouth and throat: The disease may cause sore, ooze, bleed, or swallow and breath problems in mouth and throat.
Lesions in gastrointestinal tract: The sarcoma may cause bleeding, anemia, abdominal pain and discomfort, even bowel obstruction.
Lesions in lung: When Kaposi's sarcoma in lung, it can make coughing, bloody sputum, shortness of breath, and fever.
Other health problems may also cause these symptoms. Only a doctor can tell for sure. A person with any of these symptoms should tell the doctor so that the problems can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible. | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Kaposi's sarcoma? | Before the AIDS epidemic, Kaposi's sarcoma was seen mainly in elderly Italian and Jewish men, and rarely, in elderly women. Among this group, the tumors developed slowly. In AIDS patients, the cancer can develop quickly. The cancer may also involve the skin, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, and other organs.
In people with AIDS, Kaposi's sarcoma is caused by an interaction between HIV, a weakened immune system, and the human herpesvirus-8 (HHV-8). Kaposi's sarcoma has been linked to the spread of HIV and HHV-8 through sexual activity.
People who have kidney or other organ transplants are also at risk for Kaposi's sarcoma.
African Kaposi's sarcoma is fairly common in young adult males living near the equator. One form is also common in young African children. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Kaposi%27s sarcoma ? | Clinical data has suggested that the development of Kaposi's sarcoma is related to several factors.
Infection with Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus (KSHV): Kaposi's sarcoma only develops in people who are infected with KSHV.
Immune deficiency: A defect in the immune system increases the chance to developing Kaposi's sarcoma, especially when people with AIDS.
Race: Epidemiological data show that people in Eastern European, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern descent have a higher rate of getting Kaposi's sarcoma.
Gender: Men are much more likely to get Kaposi's sarcoma than women in many places. But in Africa, men, women and children are all at risk of Kaposi's sarcoma
Sexual activity: Scientists have found faggotry are more likely to get Kaposi's sarcoma than Lesbian. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Kaposi%27s sarcoma ? | Kaposi's sarcoma in internal organs is a tumor that cannot be found early. If symptoms of Kaposi's sarcoma develop, go to see your doctor as soon as possible:
Severe gastrointestinal tract bleeding Severe breath prolem | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Kaposi%27s sarcoma (Outlook/Prognosis)? | The prognosis of Kaposi's sarcoma depends on the following:
The type of Kaposi sarcoma Whether the cancer has spread Whether the cancer has just been diagnosed or has recurred The patient's general health, especially the immune system. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Keloids? | A skin lesion that is:
Flesh-colored, red, or pink Located over the site of a wound or injury Lumpy (nodular) or ridged
The lesion may itch while it is forming and growing. | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Keloids? | Keloids occur from such skin injuries as:
Acne Burns Chickenpox Ear piercing Minor scratches Surgical cuts Traumatic wounds Vaccination sites | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Keloids ? | They are more common in people ages 10 to 20, and in African Americans, Asians, and Hispanics. Keloids often run in families. Keloidosis is a term used when many or repeated keloids occur. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Keloids ? | Call your health care provider if:
You develop keloids and want to have them removed or reduced You develop new symptoms | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Keloids (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Keloids usually are not medically dangerous, but they may affect the appearance. In some cases, they may become smaller, flatter, and less noticeable over a period of several years. Exposure to the sun during the first year after the keloid forms will cause the keloid to tan darker than the skin around it. This dark color may be permanent. Removing the keloid may not be permanent. Surgical removal may cause a larger keloid scar. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Keratosis pilaris? | Fine, bumpy texture to skin over the outer upper arm and thigh or elsewhere Skin-colored bumps the size of a grain of sand Slight pinkness may be seen around some bumps | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Keratosis pilaris? | Keratosis pilaris is harmless (benign), does not get worse over time, and often disappears with age.
In mild cases, small bumps, similar in appearance to "goose bumps," are found on the backs of the upper arms. The texture is that of very coarse sandpaper.
Bumps may also appear on the buttocks and thighs. Less commonly, bumps appear on the face and may be mistaken for acne.
Individual bumps are small, skin-colored papules that form within hair openings (follicles). The condition is generally worse in winter and often clears in the summer. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Keratosis pilaris ? | It is more common in patients who have very dry skin, or who have atopic dermatitis (eczema). It seems to run in families. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Keratosis pilaris ? | Call for an appointment with your health care provider (or discuss the condition during a routine visit) if you suspect that you have keratosis pilaris and the condition does not respond to use of over-the-counter moisturizing lotions. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Keratosis pilaris (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Keratosis pilaris may fade slowly with age. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Langerhans cell histiocytosis? | Histiocytosis X often affects the whole body. A disease that affects the whole body is called a systemic disorder.
Symptoms can vary between children and adults, although there can be some overlap. Tumors in weight-bearing bones, such as the legs or spine, may cause the bones to fracture without apparent reason.
Symptoms in children may include:
Abdominal pain Bone pain (possibly) Delayed puberty Dizziness Ear drainage that continues long-term Eyes that appear to stick out (protrude) more and more Irritability Failure to thrive Fever Frequent urination Headache Jaundice Limping Mental deterioration Rash (petechiae or purpura) Seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp Seizures Short stature Swollen lymph glands Thirst Vomiting Weight loss
Note: Children over 5 years old often have only bone involvement.
Symptoms in adults may include:
Bone pain Chest pain Cough Fever General discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling (malaise) Increased amount of urine Rash Shortness of breath Thirst and increased drinking of fluids Weight loss | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Langerhans cell histiocytosis? | Histiocytosis X has typically been thought of as a cancer-like condition. More recently researchers have begun to suspect that it is actually an autoimmune phenomenon, in which immune cells mistakenly attack the body, rather than fight infections. Extra immune cells may form tumors, which can affect various parts of the body including the bones, skull, and other areas.
Some forms of the disorder are genetic.
Histiocytosis X is thought to affect roughly 1 in 200,000 people each year. It is most often seen in children ages 1 to 15. The rate peaks among children ages 5 to10.
Pulmonary histiocytosis X is a specific type of this disorder that involves swelling of the small airways (bronchioles) and small blood vessels in the lungs. It is most common in adults. The inflammation leads to lung stiffening and damage. The cause is unknown. It most often affects those ages 30 to 40, usually cigarette smokers. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Langerhans cell histiocytosis ? | Call your health care provider if you or your child have symptoms of this disorder. Go to the emergency room if shortness of breath or chest pain develop. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Langerhans cell histiocytosis (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Histiocytosis X affects many organs and can lead to death.
About half of those with pulmonary histiocytosis see improvement, while others eventually have permanent loss of lung function.
In very young patients, the outlook depends on the specific histiocytosis and severity of the disease. Some children can live a normal life with minimal disease involvement, while others may have a poor outcome. Young children, especially infants, are more likely to have body-wide symptoms that lead to death. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Leishmaniasis? | Cutaneous leishmaniasis affects the skin and sometimes the mucus membranes. Symptoms may include:
Skin sores, which may become a skin ulcer that heals very slowly Ulcers and wearing away (erosion) in the mouth, tongue, gums, lips, nose, and inner nose Stuffy nose, runny nose, and nosebleeds Breathing difficulty Swallowing difficulty
Systemic visceral infection in children usually begins suddenly with vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and cough. Adults usually have a fever for 2 weeks to 2 months, along with symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and appetite loss. Weakness increases as the disease gets worse. Other symptoms of systemic visceral leishmaniasis may include:
Belly area (abdominal) discomfort Cough (children) Diarrhea (children) Fever that lasts for weeks; may come and go in cycles Night sweats Scaly, gray, dark, ashen skin Thinning hair Vomiting (children) Weight loss | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Leishmaniasis? | Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease spread by the bite of the sandfly. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Leishmaniasis ? | There are different forms of leishmaniasis.
Cutaneous leishmaniasis affects the skin and mucus membranes. Skin sores usually start at the site of the sandfly bite. They can last for months or years before healing on their own. In a few people, sores may develop on mucus membranes. Systemic, or visceral leishmaniasis affects the entire body. This form occurs 2 - 8 months after a person is bitten by the sandfly. Most people do not remember having a skin sore. This form can lead to deadly complications. The parasites damage the immune system by decreasing the numbers of disease-fighting cells. Cases of leishmaniasis have been reported on all continents except Australia and Antarctica. In the Americas, leishmaniasis can be found in Mexico and South America. Leishmaniasis has been reported in military personnel returning from the Persian Gulf. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Leishmaniasis ? | If you feel that you are developing symptoms of Leishmania as listed above call your health professional | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Leishmaniasis (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Cure rates are high with the proper medicine. Patients should get treated before damage to the immune system occurs. Cutaneous leishmaniasis may lead to disfigurement. Death is usually caused by complications (such as other infections), rather than from the disease itself. Death often occurs within 2 years. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Leprosy? | The bacteria responsible for leprosy grow very slowly, sometimes taking 2 to 10 years before signs and symptoms appear. The symptoms tend to affect mainly to the skin, nerves, and mucous membranes (the soft, moist areas just inside the body's openings).
When loss of sensation occurs, injuries (such as burns or fractures) may go unnoticed. You should always try to avoid injuries. However, if you experience loss of sensation due to leprosy (or another cause), you may not feel pain, which commonly warns you of harm to your body. So, extra caution is required to ensure your body is not injured.
The disease may cause symptoms, such as:
Skin lesions that may be faded/discolored, than your normal skin tone. These lesions commonly have decreased sensation to touch, heat, or pain and do not heal after several weeks to months. Growths on the skin. Thick, stiff or dry skin. Severe pain. Numbness on affected areas of the skin. Muscle weakness or paralysis (especially in the hands and feet). Eye problems that may lead to blindness. Enlarged nerves (especially those around the elbow and knee). Stuffy nose. Nosebleeds. Ulcers on the soles of feet. Since leprosy affects the nerves, loss of feeling or sensation can occur. | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Leprosy? | Leprosy is caused by the organism Mycobacterium leprae. It is not very contagious (difficult to transmit) and has a long incubation period (time before symptoms appear), which makes it difficult to determine where or when the disease was contracted. Children are more susceptible than adults to contracting the disease.
Leprosy has two common forms, tuberculoid and lepromatous, and these have been further subdivided. Despite this classification, both forms produce sores on the skin, but the lepromatous form is most severe, producing large, disfiguring lumps and bumps (nodules). Also, forms of the disease eventually cause nerve damage in the arms and legs, which causes sensory loss in the skin and muscle weakness. People with long-term leprosy may lose the use of their hands or feet due to repeated injury resulting from lack of sensation.
The disease is common in many countries worldwide, and in temperate, tropical, and subtropical climates. Approximately 100 cases per year are diagnosed in the United States. Most cases are limited to the South, California, Hawaii, and U.S. island possessions. Today effective medications are available, and isolation of victims in "leper colonies" is unnecessary. The emergence of drug-resistant Mycobacterium leprae, as well as increased numbers of cases worldwide, has led to global concern about this disease.
Evidence suggests that the bacteria that cause leprosy are able to spread from person to person. The transmission might happen when someone with the disease coughs or sneezes. This leads to the release of droplets into the air that carry the bacteria to another person. It might also happen if you are exposed to other nasal fluids (also known as secretions). Droplets and other body secretions can contain the bacteria that cause leprosy, thereby transmitting the infection. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Leprosy ? | Children are more susceptible than adults to contracting the disease.
People who live in countries where the disease is widespread are at higher risk of contracting he disease. These countries include:
Angola Brazil Central African Republic Democratic Republic of Congo Federated States of Micronesia India Kiribati Madagascar Mozambique Nepal Republic of Marshall Islands United Republic of Tanzania
People who have been in close contact with someone who has untreated Hansen’s disease are also at higher risk of contracting the disease, since they may have been exposed to the leprosy bacteria. However, as soon as patients start treatment, they are no longer able to spread the disease.
Yet, according to the CDC, most adults around the world might face very little risk of contracting leprosy, since evidence shows that 95% of all adults are naturally unable to get the disease, even if they’ve been exposed to the bacteria that causes it.
In the southern areas of the United States some armadillos are infected with leprosy. Despite the low risk of contracting the disease from contact with an armadillo, it is possible. In case of contact with an armadillo, if you decide to see a doctor, make sure to provide a complete history of armadillo contact. Your doctor can determine whether or not you have the disease. In the unlikely event that you get leprosy, your doctor can also help you get treatment.
Therefore, whenever possible, avoid contact with armadillos, in order to further decrease the risk of contracting the disease. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Leprosy ? | Although cases of leprosy in the United States are rare, you should contact your health care provider in case you feel you are developing symptoms of leprosy, in particular if you have had recent contact with someone who has the disease. Cases of leprosy in the United States need to be reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Leprosy (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Early recognition is important. Early treatment limits damage by the disease, renders the person noninfectious (you can not get the disease from them), and allows for a normal lifestyle. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Lichen planus? | Mouth lesions:
Tender or painful (mild cases may have no discomfort) Located on the sides of the tongue or the inside of the cheek Sometimes located on the gums Area of blue-white spots or "pimples" Lines of lesions that form a lacy-looking network Gradual increase in size of the affected area Lesions sometimes form painful ulcers
Skin lesions:
Usually located on the inner wrist, legs, torso, or genitals Itchy Even on both sides (symmetrical) Single lesion or clusters of lesions, often at sites of skin injury Papule 2 - 4 cm in size Papules clustered into a large, flat-topped lesion Lesions have distinct, sharp borders Possibly covered with fine white streaks or scratch marks called Wickham's striae Shiny or scaly appearance Dark colored - reddish-purple (skin) or gray-white (mouth) Possibility of developing blisters or ulcers
Other symptoms include:
Dry mouth Hair loss Metallic taste in the mouth Ridges in the nails (nail abnormalities) | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Lichen planus? | The exact cause of lichen planus is unknown. However, it is likely to be related to an allergic or immune reaction.
Lichen planus generally affects middle-aged adults. It is less common in children. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Lichen planus ? | Risks include:
Exposure to medications, dyes, and other chemical substances (including gold, antibiotics, arsenic, iodides, chloroquine, quinacrine, quinide, phenothiazines, and diuretics) Disorders such as hepatitis C | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Lichen planus ? | Call your health care provider if:
Your symptoms continue The skin or mouth lesions change in appearance The condition continues or worsens even with treatment Your dentist recommends adjusting your medications or treating conditions that trigger the disorder | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Lichen planus (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Lichen planus is usually not harmful and may get better with treatment. It usually clears up within 18 months.
However it may last for weeks to months, and may come and go for years. It usually clears up within 18 months.
If lichen planus is caused by a medication, the rash should go away once the medicine is stopped. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Lichen simplex chronicus? | This skin disorder leads to a scratch-itch cycle:
It may begin with something that rubs, irritates, or scratches the skin, such as clothing. This causes the person to rub or scratch the affected area. Constant scratching causes the skin to thicken. The thickened skin itches, causing more scratching, which causes more thickening. The skin may become leathery and brownish in the affected area.
Symptoms include:
Itching of the skin
May be long-term (chronic) May be intense Increases with nervous tension, stress
Skin lesion, patch, or plaque
Commonly located on the ankle, wrist, neck, rectum/anal area, forearms, thighs, lower leg, back of the knee, inner elbow Exaggerated skin lines over the lesion Distinct borders to the lesion Becomes leathery in texture (lichenification) Darkened (hyperpigmented) or reddened skin Raw areas Scratch marks Scaling | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Lichen simplex chronicus? | This disorder may occur in people who have:
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) Psoriasis Nervousness, anxiety, depression, and other psychologic disorders | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Lichen simplex chronicus ? | It is common in children, who cannot stop scratching insect bites and other itchy skin conditions. It can also be common in children who have chronic repetitive movements. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Lichen simplex chronicus ? | Call your health care provider if:
Symptoms get worse You develop new symptoms, especially signs of skin infection such as pain, redness or drainage from the lesion, or fever | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Lichen simplex chronicus (Outlook/Prognosis)? | You can control lichen simplex chronicus by reducing stress and scratching less. The condition may return or change sites. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Liver spots? | Skin lesion that is:
A flat patch or area of skin color change (macule) Light brown to black On the hands, arms, or forehead Painless | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Liver spots? | Liver spots are changes in skin color that occur in older skin. The increased color may be due to aging, exposure to the sun or other forms of ultraviolet light, or other unknown causes.
They occur most often on areas that have had the greatest sun exposure, such as the:
Backs of the hands Face Forearms Forehead Shoulders | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Liver spots ? | Liver spots are very common after age 40. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Liver spots ? | Call for an appointment with your health care provider if:
You have liver spots and want them removed You develop any new symptoms, especially changes in the appearance of any liver spot | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Liver spots (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Liver spots are not medically dangerous. They are permanent skin changes that may affect the cosmetic appearance of the skin. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Lymphadenopathy? | Most of the time lymphadenopathy is an incidental finding in physical examination. Sometimes they present as lump in the neck (e.g in tumors, sarcoidosis). Lymphadenitis presents as:
Red, tender skin over lymph node. Swollen, tender, or hard lymph nodes.
Lymph nodes may feel rubbery if an abscess has formed. | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Lymphadenopathy? | The most common causes of lymphadenopathy include:
Acute infections (e.g. bacterial, or viral) Chronic infections (e.g. tuberculous lymphadenitis, cat-scratch disease). Infectious mononucleosis is an acute viral infection, the hallmark of which is marked enlargement of the cervical lymph nodes. Toxoplasmosis, a parasitic disease, gives a generalized lymphadenopathy Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, hairy cell leukemia, give lymphadenopathy in all or a few lymph nodes Metastasis Sarcoidosis Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) Rheumatoid arthritis AIDS - generalized lymphadenopathy is an early sign of infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). "Lymphadenopathy syndrome" has been used to describe the first symptomatic stage of HIV progression, preceding AIDS-related complex and full-blown AIDS. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Lymphadenopathy ? | Call your health care provider or go to the emergency room if you have symptoms of lymphadenitis or lymphadenopathy. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Lymphadenopathy (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Prompt treatment with antibiotics usually leads to a complete recovery. However, it may take weeks, or even months, for swelling to disappear. The amount of time to recovery depends on the cause. Prognosis is poor for malignant tumors. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of McCune-Albright syndrome? | The hallmark symptom of McCune-Albright syndrome is premature puberty in girls. Menstrual periods may begin in early childhood, long before the breasts or pubic hair develop (which normally occur first). Puberty and menstrual bleeding may begin as early as 4 - 6 months in girls.
Early sexual development may also occur in boys, but it is not as common as it is in girls.
Other symptoms include:
Bone fractures Deformities of the bones in the face Gigantism Irregular, large patchy café-au-lait spots, especially on the back | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes McCune-Albright syndrome? | McCune-Albright syndrome is caused by mutations in the GNAS1 gene. The abnormal gene is present in a fraction, but not all, of the patient's cells (mosaicism). | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for McCune-Albright syndrome ? | This disease is not inherited. It is caused by a new change (mutation) to the DNA that occurs in the womb while the baby is developing. This mutation is not passed on to any of the person's children. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have McCune-Albright syndrome ? | Call your health care provider if your child starts puberty early, or has other symptoms of McCune-Albright syndrome. Genetic counseling, and possibly genetic testing, may be recommended if the disease is diagnosed. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have McCune-Albright syndrome (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Lifespan is relatively normal. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Measles? | Common Symptoms
Fever Rash Cough Runny Nose Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
Serious Symptoms/Complications
Diarrhea Ear infections Pneumonia Encephalitis Seizures Death
Approximately 20% of reported measles cases experience one or more complications. These complications are more common among children under 5 years of age and adults over 20 years old. Measles causes ear infections in nearly one out of every 10 children who get it. As many as one out of 20 children with measles gets pneumonia, and about one child in every 1,000 who get measles will develop encephalitis. (This is an inflammation of the brain that can lead to convulsions, and can leave your child deaf or mentally retarded.) For every 1,000 children who get measles, one or two will die from it. Measles can also make a pregnant woman have a miscarriage, give birth prematurely, or have a low-birth-weight baby. In developing countries, where malnutrition and vitamin A deficiency are prevalent, measles has been known to kill as many as one out of four people. It is the leading cause of blindness among African children. Measles kills almost 1 million children in the world each year. | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Measles? | Measles is an infectious respiratory disease caused by a virus. It spreads easily from person to person. The main symptom of measles is an itchy skin rash. The rash often starts on the head and moves down the body. The virus normally grows in the cells that line the back of the throat and in the cells that line the lungs. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Measles ? | Measles is spread by contact with an infected person, through coughing and sneezing (highly contagious). The disease is highly contagious, and can be transmitted from 4 days prior to the onset of the rash to 4 days after the onset. If one person has it, 90% of their susceptible close contacts will also become infected with the measles virus. The virus resides in the mucus in the nose and throat of the infected person. When that person sneezes or coughs, droplets spray into the air. The infected mucus can land in other people’s noses or throats when they breathe or put their fingers in their mouth or nose after handling an infected surface. The virus remains active and contagious on infected surfaces for up to 2 hours. Measles spreads so easily that anyone who is not immunized will probably get it, eventually. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Measles ? | You should seek immediate medical attention at the first sign of symptoms that resemble Measles or if you have been exposed to someone who has the Measles virus and may be contagious. This is especially important for young children or anyone who may have a compromised immune system due to medication or illness. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Measles (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Measles itself is unpleasant, but the complications are dangerous. Six to 20 percent of the people who get the disease will get an ear infection, diarrhea, or even pneumonia. One out of 1000 people with measles will develop inflammation of the brain, and about one out of 1000 will die. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Melanoma? | Usually, the first sign of melanoma is a change in the size, shape, color, or feel of a mole. The ABCD rule can help you tell whether the mole is normal or not. Moles that have any of these signs should be checked by your doctor:
A symmetry: When one half of the mole does not match the other half.
B order irregularity: The edges of the mole look ragged, blurred, or notched.
C olor: The color over the mole is not the same and may have shades of tan, brown, or black, and sometimes patches of pink, red, blue, or white.
D iameter: The mole is larger than about 1/4 inch, although sometimes melanomas can be smaller.
E volution over time: The mole is growing or changing in shape or color.
Some melanomas do not fit the above mentioned "rules" and may be hard to tell if the mole is normal or not. Only a doctor can tell for sure. A person with any of these symptoms should seek medical care as early as possible. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Melanoma ? | Clinical data has suggested that the development of melanoma is related to several factors.
Sunlight (solar UV radiation): Too much exposure to sunlight (solar UV radiation) is thought to be the biggest risk factor for most melanomas.
Moles: Although as a benign skin tumor, the mole increases the chance of developing melanoma, especially for people with multiple moles.
Genetic factors: Epidemiological data show that Whites with fair skin, freckles, or red/blonde hair have a higher risk of melanoma than the other races.
Immunosuppressive factors: Clinical surveys suggest that patients treated with Immunosuppressive medication, such as transplant patients, have an increased risk of developing melanoma.
Previous melanoma: A person with previous history of melanoma has a higher risk of developing melanoma.
Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP): Patients with xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) are at a higher risk of developing melanoma because they can not repair cell damage caused by sunlight.
Age: Epidemiological data suggest that melanoma can affect both the old and younger population.
Gender: Men have a higher chance of developing melanoma than women. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Melanoma ? | Call your dermatologist if symptoms of melanoma develop. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Melanoma (Outlook/Prognosis)? | The prognosis of melanoma depends on the following:
The stage of melanoma: Whether the cancer is found in the outer layer of skin only, or has spread to the lymph nodes, distant locations in the body
The location and size of the tumor
Presence of bleeding or ulceration at the site of the melanoma
The patient’s general health | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Melasma? | Melasma doesn't cause any other symptoms besides skin discoloration but may be of great cosmetic concern.
A uniform brown color is usually seen over the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper lip. It is most often symmetrical (matching on both sides of the face). | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Melasma? | Melasma is a very common skin disorder. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Melasma ? | Though it can affect anyone, young women with brownish skin tones are at greatest risk.
Melasma is often associated with the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. It is especially common in pregnant women, women who are taking birth control pills (oral contraceptives) and women taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) during menopause.
Sun exposure is also a strong risk factor for melasma. The condition is particularly common in tropical climates | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Melasma ? | Call your health care provider if you have persistent darkening of your face. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Melasma (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Melasma often fades over several months after stopping birth control pills or HRT, or after delivering a child. It may return with additional pregnancies or use of these medications. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Meningococcemia? | There may be few symptoms at first. Some may include:
Anxiety Fever Headache Irritability Muscle pain Nausea Rash with red or purple spots (petechiae)
Later symptoms may include:
Changing level of consciousness Large areas of bleeding under the skin (purpura) Shock | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Meningococcemia? | Meningococcemia is caused by a bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. The bacteria frequently lives in a person's upper respiratory tract without causing visible signs of illness. The bacteria can be spread from person to person through respiratory droplets -- for example, you may become infected if you are around someone with the condition when they sneeze or cough. Family members and those closely exposed to someone with the condition are at increased risk. The infection occurs more frequently in winter and early spring. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Meningococcemia ? | The bacteria can be spread from person to person through respiratory droplets -- for example, you may become infected if you are around someone with the condition when they sneeze or cough. Family members and those closely exposed to someone with the condition are at increased risk. The infection occurs more frequently in winter and early spring. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Meningococcemia ? | If you feel you are developing symptoms of meningococcemia, contact your doctor. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Meningococcemia (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Early treatment results in a good outcome. When shock develops, the outcome is less certain. The condition is most life threatening in those who have:
Disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC) - a severe bleeding disorder Kidney failure Shock | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Merkel cell cancer? | Rapid growing, painless and small mass that typically located on a sun exposed area of the body | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Merkel cell cancer? | Common causes of merkel cell carcinoma include:
Merkel cell polyomavirus Age Skin tone Exposure to sunlight and History of immunosuppression. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Merkel cell cancer ? | Fair skin people HIV positive patients Organ transplant patients Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) Lymphoproliferative disorders | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Merkel cell cancer ? | when patients experience the following:
Seizures Bilateral radiculopathies Myoclonus Cauda equina syndrome and Altered mental status | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Merkel cell cancer (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Merkel cell cancer is a highly aggressive tumor with a mortality rate that approaches 30% to 40% within 3 years of diagnosis If diagnosed early, merkel cell carcinoma has a good prognosis with a 5-year survival rate of approximately 90% | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Microsporidiosis? | Microsporidiosis usually affects people with depressed immunity especially people with HIV. Microsporidia can affect many systems such as gastrointestinal tract, eyes, respiratory tract and urinary tract. Intestinal microsporidiosis is the most common form of the disease. It usually causes chronic diarrhea which might be complicated with weight loss, and vitamin deficiency. Microsporidiosis might also affect the lungs causing cough, fever and difficult breathing. Ocular microsporidiosis presents with red painful eye and decreased vision acuity. Microsporidia can spread throughout the body causing disease in the brain, urinary system, gall bladder and blood. | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Microsporidiosis? | Microsporidiosis is caused by an organism called microsporidia. Microsporidia are unicellular organisms and are obligatory intracellular meaning that it has to live inside the cell of the host to survive and multiply. The exact method of transmission of microsporidia is not fully understood, but it is thought to be transmitted through inhalation or ingestion of the spores (which are the infective form of the disease). When the organism lands inside the cell, it multiplies and eventually ruptures causing the release of spores. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Microsporidiosis ? | People with suppressed immunity such as HIV patients and cancer patients are the most at risk individuals to have microsporidiosis. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Microsporidiosis (Outlook/Prognosis)? | In healthy individuals, the prognosis is good and the disease is self-limiting. In immunocompromised individuals, the disease is more dangerous and can be fatal.
Template:WH Template:WS | Answer this question truthfully |
Why is the cure rate so varied? | These are topics for discussion, but errors introduced in the technique can introduce false negative errors. There are numerous reasons why the cure rate is not 100%. Some of Dr. Mohs data revealed a cure rate as low as 96%, but these were often very large tumor, and previously been treated by other modalities. Some authors claim that their 5 year cure rate for primary basal cell cancer exceeded 99% while other noted more conservative cure rate of 97%. The quoted cure rate for Mohs surgery on previously treated basal cell cancer is about 94%.
1. Modern frozen section method. Frozen section histology does not give the added margin of safety by the cytotoxic Mohs paste, originally used by Dr. Mohs. This paste might have destroyed any residual cancer cells not detected by the pathologist.
2. Missing epidermal margins. Ideally, the Mohs section should include 100% of the epidermal margin, but greater than 95% is often accepted. Unfortunately, vigorous scrubbing, poorly controlled initial curettage, poor tissue health, technician's error, and surgeon's error can introduce areas missing epithelial margin. Some surgeon consider 70% epithelial margin acceptable, while other suggests 100% margin. In the ideal situation, 100% of the epithelial margin should be available to be reviewed on serial sectioning of the Mohs specimen.
3. Misreading of the pathology slide. It is difficult to differentiate between a small island of basal cell carcinoma and a hair follicle structure. Many Mohs surgeon limits their tissue processing to include only 2 sections of tissue. This severely hampers their ability to determine if a structure is a hair follicle or a carcinoma. Two histologic sections can not fully distinguish these two nearly identical structures, and can lead to either "false negative" or "false positive" errors by either calling a section clear of tumor, or calling a section positive for tumor, respectively. Serial sectioning of the tumor is preferred by other surgeons. Surgeons who performs serial sectioning through the block of tissue (usually 100 micrometres apart) are assured the contiguous nature of his tumor, the distance of the tumor from the surgical margin, and is familiarized with the nature of the tumor. Serial sectioning also makes it easier to work with three dimensional tumor with difficult to compress margins.
4. Compression artifact, freezing artifact, cautery artifact, tissue folds, crush artifact from forceps, relaxing incision artifact, cartilage dropping out, fat compression, poor staining, dropping of tumor, etc. These can be introduced as the tumor is "flattened". Stain can run from the surgical edge, and stain the surgical margin - giving a false impression that the entire surgical margin is clear, when it is not. While some surgeon unfamiliar with the "whole piece" or "PacMan" methods of processing might suggest that multiple piece sectioning is better than one. The more tissue sections are cut, the more artifacts in staining and tissue malformation will be introduced. It is imperative for the surgeon to be fully familiar with tissue handling and processing; and not simply relying on a trained technologist to perform his sectioning.
5. Hard to see tumor in heavy inflammatory infiltrate. This can occur with squamous cell carcinoma, especially when complicated with local infection, or intrinsic lymphoproliferative disorders (chronic lymphocytic leukemia). Because of abnormal peripheral blood profile, response to inflammatory skin conditions with patients with myelomonocytic leukemia can have appearance of atypical cells at sites of inflammation, confusing the Mohs surgeon.
6. Perineural spread, and benign changes simulating perineural spread. Tumor spreading along a nerve can be difficult to visualize, and sometime benign plasma cells can surround the nerve, simulating cancer.
7. Difficult to cut and process anatomical area. Examples would be the ear, and other three dimensional structures like eyelids. The ability to make a scallop shaped incision is increasingly difficult when the surgical surface is no longer a flat plane, but is a three dimensional rigid structure.
8. Recurrent skin cancer with multiple islands of recurrence. This can occur with either previous excision, or after electrodessication and curettage. As these residual skin cancer are often bound in scar tissue, and present in multiple location in the scar of the previous surgical defect - they are no longer contiguous in nature. Some surgeons advocate the removal of the complete scar in the treatment of "recurrent" skin cancers. Others advocate removing only the island of local recurrence, and leaving the previous surgical scar behind. The decision is often made depending on the location of the tumor, and the goal of the patient and physician.
9. Unreported or underreported recurrence. Many patients simply will not return to the original surgeon to report a recurrence. Consulting surgeon on the repeat surgery will often not inform the first surgeon of the recurrence. The time it takes for a recurrent tumor to be visible to the patient might be 5 or more years. Quoted "cure" rates must be looked upon with the understanding that a 5 year cure rate might not necessary be correct. As basal cell carcinoma is a very slowly progressing tumor, a 5 year no recurrence rate might not be adequate. Longer follow up might be needed to detect a slow growing tumor left in the surgical scar.
10. Poor training of the surgeon/pathologist/histotechnologist. While Mohs surgery is essentially a technical method of tissue handling and processing, the skill and training of the surgeon can greatly affect the outcome. The house of card is built with a foundation of good tissue handling, good surgical skill and hemostasis, and the bricks are the tissue processing and staining technique. A surgeon without a good histotechnologist is a house built with straw, and a histotechnologist without a good surgeon can not produce quality slides. While originally, surgeons learned the procedure by spending a few hours to several months with Dr. Mohs; today, surgeons complete residency and fellowship spending hundreds of hours observing and doing Mohs surgery. It is highly encouraged that a physician interested in learning Mohs surgery should spend extended time observing, cutting, processing, and staining Mohs specimens. The histology block should be correctly mounted and cut the first time, as there is no second chances in Mohs histology. It is not a procedure that can be taught or learn in one weekend. Many residency and Mohs fellowship continue to teach the processing of only 2 Mohs sections per tumor.
Irrespective of the problems associated with Mohs surgery, a true cure rate approaching 100% can occur with primary basal cell carcinoma (previously untreated) if proper respect of the physician's limitation, the procedure's limitation, and his laboratory staff's limitation. Conservative approach such as serial sectioning, good staining technique, and conservative Mohs margin (example: tumor at least 200 micrometre from the surgical margin) can assure the lowest recurrence rate. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Molluscum contagiosum? | Typically, the lesion of molluscum begins as a small, painless papule that may become raised up to a pearly, flesh-colored nodule. The papule often has a dimple in the center. These papules may occur in lines, where the person has scratched. Scratching or other irritation causes the virus to spread in a line or in groups, called crops. The papules are about 2 - 5 millimeters wide. There is usually no inflammation and subsequently no redness unless you have been digging or scratching at the lesions. The skin lesion commonly has a central core or plug of white, cheesy or waxy material. In adults, the lesions are commonly seen on the genitals, abdomen, and inner thigh. | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Molluscum contagiosum? | Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a virus that is a member of the poxvirus family. You can get the infection in a number of different ways. This is a common infection in children and occurs when a child comes into direct contact with a lesion. It is frequently seen on the face, neck, armpit, arms, and hands but may occur anywhere on the body except the palms and soles. Early lesions on the genitalia may be mistaken for herpes or warts but, unlike herpes, these lesions are painless. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Molluscum contagiosum ? | This is a common infection in children and occurs when a child comes into direct contact with a lesion. The virus can spread through contact with contaminated objects, such as towels, clothing, or toys. The virus also spreads by sexual contact. Persons with a weakened immune system (due to conditions such as AIDS) may have a rapidly worse case of molluscum contagiosum. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Molluscum contagiosum ? | Schedule an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms suggestive of molluscum contagiosum and if lesions persist or spread along with new symptoms. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Molluscum contagiosum (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Molluscum contagiosum lesions may persist from a few months to a few years. These lesions ultimately disappear without scarring, unless there is excessive scratching, which may leave marks. Individual lesions usually disappear within about 2 - 3 months. Complete disappearance of all lesions generally occurs within about 6 - 18 months. The disorder may persist in immunosuppressed people. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Mucormycosis? | Symptoms of rhinocerebral mucormycosis include:
Eye swelling and protrusion (proptosis) Dark nasal eschar (scabbing) Fever Headache Redness of skin overlying sinuses Sinus pain or congestion
Symptoms of lung (pulmonary) mucorycosis include:
Cough Coughing blood (occasionally) Fever Shortness of breath
Symptoms of gastrointestinal mucormycosis include:
Abdominal pain Vomiting blood
Symptoms of kidney (renal) mucormycosis include:
Fever Flank (side) pain
Symptoms of skin (cutaneous) mucormycosis include a single, painful, hardened area of skin that may have a blackened center. | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Mucormycosis? | Mucormycosis is caused by common fungi frequently found in the soil and in decaying vegetation. Most individuals are exposed to these fungi on a daily basis, but people with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to infection.
Syndromes associated with mucormycosis include:
Rhinocerebral infection (infection of sinuses and brain) May start as a sinus infection May progress to involve inflammation of cranial nerves May cause blood clots that block vessels to the brain (thrombosis)
Pulmonary mucormycosis (lung involvement) -- pneumonia that gets worse quickly and may spread to the chest cavity, heart, and brain Mucormycosis of the gastrointestinal tract, skin, and kidneys | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Mucormycosis ? | Conditions most commonly associated with mucormycosis include diabetes (usually poorly controlled diabetes), chronic steroid use, metabolic acidosis, organ transplantation, leukemia, lymphoma, treatment with deferoxamine, and AIDS. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Mucormycosis ? | People with weakened immune systems and immune disorders (including diabetes) should seek medical attention if they develop fever, headache, sinus pain, eye swelling, or any of the other symptoms listed above. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Mucormycosis (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Mucormycosis has an extremely high death rate even when aggressive surgery is done. Death rates range from 25 - 85% depending on the body area involved and your overall health. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Mumps? | Common symptoms include:
Face pain Fever Headache Sore throat Swelling of the parotid glands (the largest salivary glands, located between the ear and the jaw) Swelling of the temples or jaw (temporomandibular area)
Other symptoms of this disease that can occur in males:
Testiclar lump Testicle pain Scrotal swelling | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Mumps? | The mumps are caused by a virus. The virus is spread from person-to-person by respiratory droplets (for example, when you sneeze) or by direct contact with items that have been contaminated with infected saliva.
Mumps most commonly occurs in children ages 2 - 12 who have not been vaccinated against the disease. However, the infection can occur at any age.
The time between being exposed to the virus and getting sick (incubation period) is usually 12 - 24 days.
Mumps may also infect the:
Central nervous system Pancreas Testes | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Mumps ? | Anyone in direct contact with someone with mumps is at risk for the disease. Also, people who have not been vaccinated against mumps are at increased risk for the disease. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Mumps ? | Call your health care provider if you or your child has mumps and:
Eye redness Persistent drowsiness Persistent vomiting or abdominal pain Severe headache Testicle pain or a testicle lump
Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if convulsions occur. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Mumps (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Patients usually do well, even if other organs are involved. After the illness, the patient has a life-long immunity to the mumps. | Answer this question truthfully |