No. 67 Skin
 
 

Box 1. Definition of some terms

Allergic rhinitis
Rhinitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose; in allergic rhinitis this inflammation is caused by exposure to allergens such as pollen, house dust mites or animal dander.

Atopy
A genetically determined pre-disposition to develop certain diseases (asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic eczema) on the basis of a hypersensitivity of the skin and mucous membranes to environmental substances. Atopy is associated with increased IgE production and an altered nonspecific reactivity.

Eczema
A generic term for an inflammatory condition of the skin.

Erythema
Redness due to capillary dilation.

Folliculitis
An inflammatory reaction of the hair follicles.

Papule
A circumscribed, solid elevation on the skin.

Pyoderma
A pus-forming infection of the skin.

Stigma
Generally means visible evidence of disease.

Vesicle
A small circumscribed skin elevation containing fluid.


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