Diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases

Skin is the largest and most visible organ of our body. The skin has a number of important functions, we can point out its protective role (barriers) from the environmental impacts, injuries and infections. It is likely that almost every person will have some kind of a skin disease once in a lifetime – infants, children, teenagers, adults or seniors.

A variety of skin tests may be performed to diagnose skin allergies, bacterial, viral, or fungal skin infections, and other problems affecting the skin. Skin tests are also performed to tell the difference between malignant (cancerous) cells and benign (noncancerous) growths.

Q&A

What are the most common skin test?

Patch testing: Patch tests are used to help diagnose skin allergies. Identified allergens (substances that a person may be allergic to) are applied to the skin on the back with adhesive patches and left for a period of time. The skin is then examined for any reaction.
Skin biopsy: Skin biopsies are performed to diagnose skin cancer or benign skin disorders. During a skin biopsy, skin is removed (after a local anaesthetic is applied) and is taken to a laboratory for analysis. Skin may be removed with a scalpel, Gillette blue blade, or a cylindrical punch biopsy tool. Stitches may be used to close the wound.
Culture: A culture is a test that is done to identify the microorganism (bacteria, fungus, or virus) that is causing an infection. Skin (surface scrapings, biopsies, contents of pus bumps and blisters), hair, or nails may be cultured to detect bacteria, fungi, or viruses.