Dry round red patches on skin. Discoid Eczema: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments for Circular Skin Patches

20.11.202113.07.2023 by alexxlab

What are the distinguishing features of discoid eczema. How does discoid eczema differ from other types of eczema. What triggers discoid eczema outbreaks. How is discoid eczema diagnosed and treated. Can discoid eczema be prevented or managed long-term.

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Understanding Discoid Eczema: A Comprehensive Overview

Discoid eczema, also known as nummular or discoid dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by distinctive circular or oval patches of inflamed skin. This form of eczema can affect any part of the body, though it rarely appears on the face or scalp. Unlike some other types of eczema, discoid eczema doesn’t seem to have a genetic component, but it can be a persistent and challenging condition to manage.

Key Characteristics of Discoid Eczema

Circular or oval-shaped patches
Itchy, reddened, and swollen skin
Potential for blistering and oozing in early stages
Development of dry, crusty, and flaky skin over time
Possibility of skin discoloration

Is discoid eczema contagious? No, discoid eczema is not contagious. It cannot be spread from person to person through physical contact. However, the exact cause of this condition remains unknown, which can make prevention challenging.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Discoid Eczema

The symptoms of discoid eczema can vary in severity and may change over time. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early detection and proper management of the condition.

Initial Manifestations

When discoid eczema first appears, it often starts as a group of small red spots or bumps on the skin. These spots gradually merge to form larger patches that can range from a few millimeters to several centimeters in size. The color of these patches can vary, appearing pink, red, or brown.

Progression of Symptoms

Swelling and blistering: In the early stages, affected areas may become swollen and develop small fluid-filled blisters.
Itching and discomfort: Patches of discoid eczema are typically very itchy, especially at night, which can disrupt sleep and quality of life.
Drying and cracking: As the condition progresses, the skin may become dry, crusty, and prone to cracking.
Clearing of the center: In some cases, the center of the patch may clear, leaving a ring of discolored skin that can be mistaken for ringworm.

How can you differentiate discoid eczema from ringworm? While both conditions can present as circular patches on the skin, discoid eczema typically has a more complex appearance with scaling, crusting, and potentially oozing. Ringworm, caused by a fungal infection, usually has a clearer, more defined border and may be accompanied by hair loss if it occurs on the scalp.

Identifying Risk Factors and Triggers for Discoid Eczema

While the exact cause of discoid eczema remains elusive, several factors have been identified that may increase the risk of developing this condition or trigger flare-ups in those already affected.

Common Risk Factors

Dry skin: Individuals with naturally dry skin may be more susceptible to discoid eczema.
History of atopic conditions: Some people with discoid eczema also have a history of atopic eczema, asthma, or hay fever.
Age and gender: Discoid eczema can affect people of all ages but is more common in adults, particularly those over 50. It appears to be slightly more prevalent in men.
Environmental factors: Dry environments and cold climates can exacerbate symptoms, while humid or sunny conditions may provide relief for some individuals.

Potential Triggers

Certain factors may trigger the onset or worsening of discoid eczema symptoms:

Minor skin injuries: Insect bites, burns, or other small traumas to the skin can sometimes precipitate an outbreak.
Chemical irritants: Harsh soaps, detergents, and other skincare products may irritate the skin and trigger symptoms.
Medications: Some medications, including interferon, ribavirin, TNF-alpha blockers, and statins, have been associated with discoid eczema outbreaks in some individuals.
Stress: While not a direct cause, stress may exacerbate symptoms or make them more noticeable.

Can discoid eczema be prevented? While complete prevention may not be possible due to the unknown cause, managing risk factors and avoiding known triggers can help reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks. This includes maintaining good skin hydration, avoiding harsh chemicals, and managing stress levels.

Diagnosis and Medical Assessment of Discoid Eczema

Proper diagnosis of discoid eczema is crucial for effective management and treatment. While the condition’s distinctive appearance often allows for a straightforward diagnosis, healthcare professionals may employ various methods to confirm the condition and rule out other possibilities.

Diagnostic Process

Physical examination: A healthcare provider will typically begin by visually inspecting the affected areas of skin, looking for the characteristic circular or oval patches.
Medical history: Questions about symptoms, duration, and potential triggers help provide context for the diagnosis.
Differential diagnosis: The healthcare provider will consider other conditions that may present similarly, such as ringworm, psoriasis, or other forms of eczema.
Patch testing: In some cases, patch testing may be recommended to rule out allergic contact dermatitis as a cause of the symptoms.
Skin biopsy: While rarely necessary, a small skin sample may be taken for microscopic examination in cases where the diagnosis is uncertain.

When should you seek medical advice for suspected discoid eczema? It’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider if you notice persistent, itchy, circular patches on your skin that don’t respond to over-the-counter treatments. Additionally, seek immediate medical attention if you observe signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pus-like discharge from the affected areas.

Treatment Options and Management Strategies for Discoid Eczema

While discoid eczema is often a chronic condition, various treatment options can help manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups. A comprehensive approach typically involves a combination of medical treatments and self-care strategies.

Medical Treatments

Topical corticosteroids: These anti-inflammatory medications are often the first-line treatment for reducing inflammation and itching.
Emollients: Regular use of moisturizers helps maintain skin hydration and improve the skin barrier function.
Antihistamines: Oral antihistamines can help reduce itching and improve sleep quality.
Topical calcineurin inhibitors: These non-steroidal medications can be used as an alternative to corticosteroids, especially for long-term management.
Antibiotics: If a secondary bacterial infection is present, oral or topical antibiotics may be prescribed.
Phototherapy: In some cases, controlled exposure to ultraviolet light may be beneficial.

Self-Care and Lifestyle Modifications

Complementing medical treatments with appropriate self-care measures can significantly improve outcomes:

Gentle skin care: Use mild, fragrance-free soaps and avoid hot water when bathing.
Regular moisturizing: Apply emollients generously and frequently, especially after bathing.
Avoiding triggers: Identify and avoid personal triggers, such as certain fabrics or skincare products.
Stress management: Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga.
Climate control: Use a humidifier in dry environments to add moisture to the air.
Proper clothing: Wear soft, breathable fabrics and avoid tight-fitting clothes that may irritate the skin.

How long does it take for discoid eczema treatments to show results? The response to treatment can vary among individuals. Some may see improvement within a few days of starting treatment, while others may require several weeks. Consistency in following the treatment plan and patience are key to managing discoid eczema effectively.

Complications and Long-Term Outlook for Discoid Eczema

While discoid eczema is not typically a severe condition, it can lead to complications and have long-term effects on skin health and quality of life. Understanding these potential issues can help individuals better manage their condition and seek appropriate care when needed.

Potential Complications

Secondary infections: Open or cracked skin can become vulnerable to bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.
Sleep disturbances: Intense itching, particularly at night, can significantly disrupt sleep patterns.
Emotional impact: The visible nature of the condition and chronic discomfort can affect self-esteem and mental health.
Skin changes: Prolonged inflammation can lead to skin thickening (lichenification) or changes in pigmentation.

Long-Term Prognosis

The long-term outlook for individuals with discoid eczema can vary:

Recurrence: Many people experience recurring episodes of discoid eczema, often in the same areas previously affected.
Remission: Some individuals may experience long periods without symptoms, while others may have more persistent issues.
Skin discoloration: Even after the eczema has cleared, affected areas may remain discolored for some time.
Management: With proper treatment and self-care, most people can effectively manage their symptoms and maintain a good quality of life.

Can discoid eczema be cured permanently? While there is no permanent cure for discoid eczema, many individuals can achieve long-term remission with appropriate treatment and lifestyle modifications. The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms, prevent flare-ups, and minimize the impact on daily life.

Discoid Eczema in Special Populations: Children and Elderly

While discoid eczema can affect individuals of any age, its presentation and management may differ in certain populations, particularly children and the elderly. Understanding these differences is crucial for appropriate care and treatment.

Discoid Eczema in Children

Discoid eczema is less common in children compared to adults, but when it does occur, it may present some unique challenges:

Presentation: In children, discoid eczema patches may be smaller and more numerous than in adults.
Location: It’s more likely to affect the face and scalp in children than in adults.
Treatment considerations: Care must be taken when using topical medications in children, as their skin is more sensitive and absorbs medications more readily.
Impact on growth: Severe cases may potentially affect a child’s growth and development if sleep is significantly disrupted or if the condition leads to frequent infections.

Discoid Eczema in the Elderly

Older adults may face additional challenges when dealing with discoid eczema:

Increased susceptibility: Age-related changes in skin structure and function can make older adults more prone to developing discoid eczema.
Comorbidities: The presence of other health conditions may complicate treatment options.
Medication interactions: Care must be taken to avoid potential interactions between eczema treatments and medications for other conditions.
Skin fragility: Older skin is often more fragile and may be more susceptible to side effects from topical treatments.

How does the approach to treating discoid eczema differ in children and the elderly? Treatment approaches are tailored to the individual’s age, overall health, and specific symptoms. In children, the focus is often on gentle, safe treatments and educating both the child and parents about proper skincare. For older adults, treatment may need to be adjusted to account for age-related skin changes and potential interactions with other medications.

Research and Future Directions in Discoid Eczema Management

As our understanding of discoid eczema continues to evolve, ongoing research is paving the way for new and improved treatment options. These advancements offer hope for better management strategies and potentially more targeted therapies in the future.

Current Research Focus Areas

Genetic factors: Scientists are investigating potential genetic markers that may predispose individuals to discoid eczema.
Immune system involvement: Research is ongoing to better understand the role of the immune system in the development and progression of discoid eczema.
Microbiome studies: The relationship between skin microbiome composition and discoid eczema is an area of active investigation.
Novel treatment modalities: Researchers are exploring new treatment options, including biologics and small molecule inhibitors, that may offer more targeted approaches to managing discoid eczema.

Promising Future Directions

Several areas show potential for improving discoid eczema management in the coming years:

Personalized medicine: Advances in genetic testing and biomarker identification may lead to more individualized treatment plans.
Improved barrier repair: Development of new emollients and skin barrier enhancers could help prevent flare-ups more effectively.
Anti-inflammatory approaches: Novel anti-inflammatory agents with fewer side effects than traditional corticosteroids are being investigated.
Immunomodulatory therapies: Treatments that specifically target the immune pathways involved in discoid eczema may offer more precise control of symptoms.
Prevention strategies: Better understanding of triggers and risk factors may lead to more effective prevention methods.

What are the most promising new treatments on the horizon for discoid eczema? While research is ongoing, some of the most exciting developments include biologics that target specific inflammatory pathways, novel small molecule inhibitors, and advanced formulations of topical treatments that offer improved efficacy and reduced side effects. However, it’s important to note that these treatments are still in various stages of research and development, and their long-term safety and effectiveness need to be thoroughly evaluated before they become widely available.

As research progresses, individuals with discoid eczema can look forward to potentially more effective and personalized treatment options in the future. In the meantime, working closely with healthcare providers to manage symptoms and stay informed about the latest developments remains the best approach for living with this challenging skin condition.

Discoid eczema | nidirect

Discoid eczema, also known as nummular or discoid dermatitis, is a long-term skin condition. It causes skin to become itchy, reddened, swollen and cracked in circular or oval patches. See your pharmacist or GP if you think you may have discoid eczema so they can recommend a suitable treatment.

Symptoms of discoid eczema

Circular or oval patches of eczema

Circular or oval patches of eczema can affect any part of the body, although they don’t usually affect the face or scalp.

They start as a group of small red spots or bumps on the skin which join up to form larger pink, red or brown patches that can range from a few millimetres to several centimetres in size.

Blistering

At first, these patches of eczema are often swollen, blistered (covered with small fluid-filled pockets) and ooze fluid.

Itchiness and pain

The patches also tend to be very itchy, particularly at night.

Dry, crusty, cracked and flaky skin patches

Over time, the patches may become dry, crusty, cracked and flaky. the centre of the patch also sometimes clears, leaving a ring of discoloured skin that can be mistaken for ringworm.

Discoid eczema causes circular or oval patches of eczema on the skin

You may just have one patch of discoid eczema, but most people get several patches. The skin between the patches is often dry.

Patches of discoid eczema can sometimes become infected.

Signs of an infection can include:

the patches oozing a lot of fluid
a yellow crust developing over the patches
the skin around the patches becoming red, hot, swollen, and tender or painful
feeling sick
chills
feeling unwell

When to get medical advice

See your pharmacist or GP if you think you may have discoid eczema so they can recommend a suitable treatment.

You should also seek medical advice if you think your skin may be infected. You may need treatment.

Your GP should be able to make a diagnosis just by examining the affected areas of skin. In some cases they may also ask questions or arrange some tests to rule out other conditions.

Your GP may refer you to a dermatologist (a doctor who specialises in managing skin conditions) if they’re unsure of the diagnosis or if you need patch testing.

Causes of discoid eczema

The cause of discoid eczema is unknown, although it may occur as a result of having particularly dry skin.

Dry skin means your skin can’t provide an effective barrier against substances that come into contact with it. This could allow a previously harmless substance, such as soap, to irritate (damage) your skin.

It’s important to look carefully at all the chemicals in cosmetics and toiletries that may have come into contact with your skin. Contact dermatitis, a type of eczema caused by coming into contact with a particular irritant, may have a role in discoid eczema.

Some people with discoid eczema also have a history of atopic eczema, which often occurs in people who are prone to asthma and hay fever. However, unlike atopic eczema, discoid eczema doesn’t seem to run in families.

Other possible triggers

An outbreak of discoid eczema may sometimes be triggered by a minor skin injury, such as an insect bite or a burn.

Some medicines may also be associated with discoid eczema, as patches of eczema can appear in people taking:

interferon and ribavirin – when they’re used together to treat hepatitis C
tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) blockers – used to treat some types of arthritis
statins (cholesterol-lowering medication) – which can cause dry skin and rashes

Dry environments and cold climates can make discoid eczema worse, and sunny or humid (damp) environments may make your symptoms better.

Treating discoid eczema

Discoid eczema is usually a long-term problem. But medications are available to help relieve the symptoms and keep the condition under control.

Without treatment, discoid eczema can last for weeks, months or even years. It may also keep recurring – often in the same area that was affected previously.

Treatments used include:

emollients – moisturisers applied to the skin to stop it becoming dry
topical corticosteroids – ointments and creams applied to the skin that can help relieve severe symptoms
antihistamines – medications that can reduce itching and help you sleep better

There are also things you can do yourself to help, such as avoiding all the irritating chemicals in soaps, detergents, bubble baths and shower gels.

Additional medication can be prescribed if your eczema is infected or particularly severe.

Occasionally, areas of skin affected by discoid eczema can be left permanently discoloured after the condition has cleared up.

Other types of eczema

Eczema is the name for a group of skin conditions that cause dry, irritated skin. Other types of eczema include:

atopic eczema (also called atopic dermatitis) – the most common type of eczema, it often runs in families and is linked to other conditions such as asthma and hay fever
contact dermatitis – a type of eczema that occurs when the body comes into contact with a particular substance
varicose eczema – a type of eczema that most often affects the lower legs and is caused by problems with the flow of blood through the leg veins

Discoid eczema

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When a Red Circle on Your Skin Is Not Ringworm

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Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M. D., MPH — By Scott Frothingham on April 18, 2019

The telltale signs of the fungal infection ringworm, include an area of the skin that may be:

red
itchy
scaly
bumpy
roughly circular

It may also have a slightly raised border. If the border of the patch slightly raises and extends outward, roughly forming a circle, it might resemble a worm or a snake.

Ringworm is actually caused by mold-like parasites — no actual worm is involved. If caught early it can be cleared with an antifungal cream or ointment. If it covers a large area of skin, your doctor may prescribe an antifungal medicine.

These signs of ringworm can be different for different people and they’re similar to other conditions. So, if that red circle on your skin isn’t ringworm, what could it be?

Like ringworm, eczema is often first noticed as an itchy, red patch. Other symptoms may include:

dry skin
rough or scaly patches of skin
swelling
crusting or oozing

Unlike ringworm, there’s currently no cure for eczema. But symptoms can be managed with:

lifestyle changes
over-the-counter remedies
prescription topicals
immunosuppressants

Because it often looks like a ring of small skin-colored, pink or red bumps, granuloma annulare might be mistakenly identified as ringworm. The diameter of the rings can be up to 2 inches.

While ringworm is a fungal infection, it’s not clear was causes granuloma annulare.

It’s sometimes triggered by:

minor skin injuries
insect or animal bites
vaccinations
infections

Granuloma annulare is typically treated with:

corticosteroid creams or injections
oral medications, such as antibiotics or drugs to prevent immune system reactions
freezing with liquid nitrogen
light therapy

Psoriasis could be mistaken for ringworm because of the itchy red patches and scales that are symptoms of the condition.

Unlike ringworm, psoriasis is not a fungal infection, it’s a skin condition that accelerates the skin cell life cycle.

Psoriasis symptoms may include:

red patches with silvery scales
itching, soreness, or burning
cracked, dry skin

While ringworm can be cured with antifungal medication, there’s currently no cure for psoriasis. The symptoms of psoriasis can be addressed with a variety of treatments including:

topical steroids
vitamin D analogues
retinoids
calcineurin inhibitors
cyclosporine
light therapy

With its itchy, red rash, contact dermatitis might be confused with ringworm. Contact dermatitis occurs when your body reacts to a chemical, such as a skin care product or detergent.

Other symptoms might include:

dry, scaly, cracked skin
swelling or tenderness
bumps or blisters

Like ringworm, a key to treating contact dermatitis is avoidance. With ringworm, a contagious fungal infection, you avoid infected people, animals, and objects. With contact dermatitis you identify and avoid the substance that triggers the condition.

Treatment might include steroid ointments or creams and oral medications such as antihistamines or corticosteroids.

A bullseye rash is a common sign of Lyme disease. Because of its circular appearance, it can be mistaken for ringworm.

Lyme disease is caused by a bite from a black-legged tick.

Other symptoms of Lyme disease may include flu-like symptoms and a spreading rash that’s itchy or painful.

It’s important to treat Lyme disease as soon as possible. Treatment commonly includes oral or intravenous antibiotics.

Pityriasis rosea typically starts with a round or oval, slightly raised, scaly patch on your chest, abdomen, or back. Because of its shape, the first patch (herald patch) might be erroneously thought to be ringworm. The herald patch is usually followed by smaller spots and itching.

Although the exact cause of pityriasis rosea hasn’t been determined, it’s thought to be triggered by a viral infection. Unlike ringworm, it’s not believed to be contagious.

Pityriasis rosea commonly goes away on its own in 10 weeks or less and is treated with nonprescription medications and remedies to relieve itching.

If the itching is unbearable or it doesn’t disappear in an appropriate amount of time, your doctor may prescribe:

antihistamines
antiviral drugs
corticosteroids

Although a circular or ring-like rash could be ringworm, it could also be a ringworm look alike.

If you notice a circular rash on yourself or a child, a visit to the doctor for an accurate diagnosis is often warranted. Your doctor might refer you to a dermatologist. The Healthline FindCare tool can provide options in your area if you don’t already have a dermatologist.

If, following the doctor’s visit, the rash doesn’t clear up as expected, update your doctor to see if you need a new diagnosis. Many skin conditions have similar appearances and symptoms, so the original diagnosis may have been inaccurate.

Last medically reviewed on April 18, 2019

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

About psoriasis. (2018).
psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis
Contact dermatitis. (n.d.).
aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/library/allergy-library/contact-dermatitis
Eczema treatment. (n.d.).
nationaleczema.org/eczema/treatment/
Lyme disease: Treatment. (2018).
cdc.gov/lyme/treatment/index.html
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018). Pityriasis rosea.
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pityriasis-rosea/symptoms-causes/syc-20376405
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2019). Granuloma annulare.
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/granuloma-annulare/symptoms-causes/syc-20351319
Ringworm. (n.d.).
aad.org/public/diseases/contagious-skin-diseases/ringworm
Signs of Lyme disease that appear on your skin. (n.d.).
aad.org/public/diseases/rashes/lyme-disease
What is eczema? (n.d.).
nationaleczema.org/eczema/

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Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M.D., MPH — By Scott Frothingham on April 18, 2019

Plaques on the skin – causes, what diseases it occurs in, diagnosis and methods of treatment

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Plaques on the skin: the causes of occurrence, in what diseases they occur, diagnosis and methods of treatment.
Definition

A plaque is a pathological element with clear edges that rises above the skin surface or merges with it, more than 5 mm in size.
In dermatology, many types of plaques are distinguished – about 70 diseases occur with the formation of these elements, which makes the plaque one of the most common rashes.
Varieties of plaques

The shape of the plaques are round, oval and irregular in shape. Over time, the shape, surface and appearance of this element may change.
Due to the occurrence of plaques, they can be both a manifestation of skin diseases and a symptom of diseases of internal organs and systems (autoimmune reactions, liver diseases, oncological processes, allergic reactions).
Plaques are dry, smooth, red, brown, gray-white, etc.
Possible causes of plaques
Dry plaques on the skin in adults can be a manifestation of the following diseases:
1. Fungal infection of the skin, accompanied by plaques with severe itching.
2. Allergic reactions are characterized by the appearance on the skin of smooth dry plaques, pink spots, blisters, which are very itchy and cause severe discomfort. They can develop both when the skin comes into contact with the allergen, and when it gets on the mucous membranes (for example, with urticaria, hay fever, food and contact allergies).
3. Psoriasis is a chronic non-infectious skin disease in which scaly dry plaques form on the elbows, knees, scalp, prone to fusion and accompanied by mild itching.
1. Dry plaques form on the skin if it is exposed to stress for a long time with the loss of its protective functions.
2. Diseases of the digestive tract, accompanied by malabsorption syndrome (impaired absorption of vitamins and trace elements in the small intestine), chronic diseases of the liver and other organs, in which substances that are not normally present in the dermis accumulate, also lead to the appearance of dry plaques.
3. Solar keratoma is a precancerous condition, which is characterized by the presence of many light grayish plaques on the skin.
The appearance of red plaques on the skin indicates their good blood supply. Possible causes of this condition may be the following nosologies:
1. Drug toxidermia is an allergic reaction accompanied by the appearance of elements in the form of plaques on the skin. In severe cases, Lyell’s syndrome or Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, may develop.
1. Dühring’s dermatitis (herpetiform) is a chronic skin disease with no established etiology, which is characterized by recurrent appearance of a rash of various morphologies on the skin, accompanied by severe skin itching and burning.
2. Mycosis fungoides is a primary T-cell lymphoma of the skin, a malignant lymphoid lesion, primarily of the skin. Itchy red plaques appear on the skin, resembling eczema. In the initial stages, they respond well to treatment with hormonal ointments, but the disease itself requires more complex therapy.
1. In children, the appearance of red spots and plaques on the skin is most often associated with an allergic reaction to food.
Brown plaques occur when melanin is deposited in the affected area of the dermis, which causes a brown (dark) color. Possible causes may be the following diseases:
1. Becker’s nevus – an anomaly in the development of the dermis, when dark plaques with an uneven surface appear on the skin, on which hair can begin to grow over time.
2. Pigmentary nevus – “birthmark”, may rise above the skin, has a brown or dark color.
3. Melanoma is the most malignant skin tumor characterized by rapid metastasis. It develops mainly from nevi and moles. If the nature of the surface, the boundaries of the mole change, its size increases, bleeding occurs, you should immediately contact a dermatologist or oncologist to exclude the development of melanoma.
4. Basal cell skin cancer is more often localized on the head, face, neck, does not metastasize, is characterized by slow growth.
5. Senile keratoma occurs in elderly people, most likely due to a lack of vitamins, an abundance of animal fats consumed, skin sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation due to a violation of its protective functions. Typical localization – face, neck, open areas of the body.
6. Seborrheic keratoma is a yellowish plaque on the skin that eventually transforms into a dark brown growth that tends to flake off, itch severely, crack, bleed, and can serve as an entryway for infection.
Which doctors to contact
With the formation of plaques on the skin, it is necessary to contact a dermatologist to determine the causes of the appearance of this element of the rash.
Diagnosis and testing for plaques

For the diagnosis of fungal skin lesions, scraping from the affected area is used for subsequent microscopic examination.
The development of an allergic reaction requires seeking medical help to identify the allergen, prescribing antihistamines, and sometimes hormonal drugs. In clinical cases of allergy, along with skin tests, analyzes are performed using various sets of common allergens and triggers: a panel for respiratory allergens, for food allergens, and for a combination of both.
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In psoriasis, seeing a dermatologist and a rheumatologist can help reduce the symptoms of the disease if appropriate therapy is prescribed. For the diagnosis, it is usually sufficient to examine, determine, the skin manifestations of psoriasis are so characteristic, but if necessary, a differential diagnosis is carried out, including a clinical blood test, feces for the presence of worm eggs and protozoa, and a histological examination of the skin.
Clinical blood test: general analysis, leukoformula, ESR (with microscopy of a blood smear in the presence of pathological changes)
Synonyms: Complete blood count, UAC. Full blood count, FBC, Complete blood count (CBC) with differential white blood cell count (CBC with diff), Hemogram.
Brief description of the study CBC: general a…
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Fecal analysis for helminth eggs (helminth eggs)
There are restrictions on the days of taking samples in medical offices and receiving samples self-collected for this study (feces, urine, etc. ).
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Protozoa stool test (PRO stool)
There are restrictions on the days of taking samples in medical offices and receiving samples self-collected for this study (feces, urine, etc.).
We recommend that you check the details…
Up to 1 working day
Available with house call
RUB 570
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Histological examination of biopsy material and material obtained during surgical interventions (endoscopic material; tissues of the female reproductive system; skin, soft tissues; hematopoietic and lymphoid tissue; bone and cartilage tissue)
Taking biomaterial is paid separately.
According to the requirements of paragraph 17 of the Rules for conducting pathological and anatomical studies, approved. Order of the Ministry of Health Ro…
Up to 5 business days
Available with house call
2 880 RUB
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Diseases of the stomach and intestines can also lead to plaque formation on the skin. To identify the pathology of the gastrointestinal tract, it is enough to refer to
therapist or
gastroenterologist, conduct
a number of endoscopic examinations (gastroscopy, and, if necessary, colonoscopy), ultrasound of the abdominal organs, perform some screening blood tests for diseases of the liver, intestines, stomach.
Gastroscopy
Examination of the mucous membrane of the upper gastrointestinal tract with the possibility of performing a biopsy or endoscopic removal of small pathological. ..
4 490 rubles
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Colonoscopy
Endoscopic examination of the large intestine to look for abnormalities, perform biopsies, and remove small polyps and tumors.
RUB 6,390
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Comprehensive ultrasound examination of the abdominal organs (liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen)
Scanning of the internal organs of the abdominal cavity to assess its functional state and the presence of pathology.
RUB 3,090
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Liver function tests: screening
Up to 1 working day
Available with house call
RUB 1,935
Add to cart
Diagnosis of celiac disease: intolerance to cereal protein (gluten)
Up to 8 working days
Available with house call
7 520 RUB
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Gastropanel
Up to 10 business days
Available with house call
RUB 4,760
Add to cart
To clarify the diagnosis of keratoma, a skin biopsy is performed and an epithelium scraping is performed, followed by microscopic and histochemical examination.
Histological examination of biopsy material and material obtained during surgical interventions (endoscopic material; tissues of the female reproductive system; skin, soft tissues; hematopoietic and lymphoid tissue; bone and cartilage tissue)
Taking biomaterial is paid separately.
According to the requirements of paragraph 17 of the Rules for conducting pathological and anatomical studies, approved. Order of the Ministry of Health Ro…
Up to 5 business days
Available with house call
2 880 RUB
Add to cart
Examination of scrapings and impressions of tumors and tumor-like formations
Material for research. Imprints and scrapings are obtained from pathological lesions of the skin and mucous membranes (except for the cervix and cervical canal). Relative to test…
Up to 2 business days
Available with house call
RUB 1,030
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If atypical cells are detected in scrapings or biopsies, immediately contact
oncologist.
If xanthoma appears on the skin, it is recommended to consult a cardiologist, take blood tests for lipid profile and blood glucose levels, and screen for diabetes.
Lipid profile screening
Up to 1 working day
Available with house call
1 355 RUB
Add to cart
Glucose (in the blood) (Glucose)
Research material
Serum or blood plasma. If it is not possible to centrifuge the sample 30 minutes after collection for serum/plasma separation. ..
Up to 1 working day
Available with house call
335 RUB
Add to cart
Diabetes management: advanced
Up to 1 working day
Available with house call
RUB 5 820
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What should I do if plaques appear on the skin?

Any newly appeared neoplasms should be shown to a dermatologist. Their cosmetic removal without prior consultation with a specialist is fraught with serious consequences.
In addition, there are symptoms that require immediate medical attention:
- change in the shape of the plaque – the edges have become uneven;
- change in the surface of the plaque – cracks, ulcerations appeared;
- change in the size of the plaque – it began to grow rapidly above the surface of the skin or actively spread through it;
- discoloration of the plaque – in cases of malignancy, an uneven color of the formation is usually observed with areas of darker and lighter shades;
- the appearance of bleeding – both contact and spontaneous;
- enlargement of regional (nearby) lymph nodes.
Plaque treatment

When plaques of an allergic nature appear on the skin, antihistamines are prescribed, in cases of a severe course of the disease, glucocorticosteroids. In addition, it is important to follow a hypoallergenic diet.
Mycotic plaques require antifungal drugs, both local (ointments, creams) and systemic (tablets). Taking these drugs is associated with a high risk of side effects, and therefore it is possible only after consulting a doctor, accurate verification of the diagnosis and confirmation of the etiology of the disease.
Treatment of psoriasis is multi-stage and complex, it involves constant monitoring by a rheumatologist, taking cytostatics and other drugs, using ointments and shampoos to improve skin condition, using antihistamines to reduce itching, including physiotherapy and a hypoallergenic diet in the treatment regimen.
When confirming the presence of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, properly selected therapy can stop the appearance of new plaques on the skin, as well as prevent the development of complications of the underlying disease.
Sources:
1. Clinical guidelines. Dermatitis herpetiformis // Russian Society of Dermatovenerologists and Cosmetologists. 2016.
2. Clinical guidelines. Urticaria in children // Union of Pediatricians of Russia; Russian Association of Allergists and Clinical Immunologists. 2018.
3. Clinical guidelines. Toxidermia // Russian Society of Dermatovenerologists and Cosmetologists. 2016.
4. Clinical guidelines. Familial hypercholesterolemia // National Society for the Study of Atherosclerosis. 2018.
IMPORTANT!
The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.
For a correct assessment of the results of your analyzes over time, it is preferable to do studies in the same laboratory, since different laboratories may use different research methods and units of measurement to perform the same analyzes.
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Dry spots on the skin: three common dermatological diseases
July 5, 2020
Dry spots on the skin are a common dermatological symptom that can indicate both a temporary failure and a violation of the barrier functions of the epidermis, and a skin disease. It all depends on the size of the spots, the clarity of their boundaries, as well as the duration of their presence on the skin.
The causes of dryness can be divided into two large groups:
- non-specific – allergic reactions to household chemicals, laundry soap, cosmetic products, dehydration due to cold and wind;
- specific – then the spots become a manifestation of dermatological diseases.
Sometimes a person may notice that dry spots appear on his skin after a certain event occurs, for example, after washing clothes with his hands. Then the reason is obvious and easy to eliminate. But if dry spots on the skin do not go away, itch, peel off, you should consult a doctor.
Dry spots with scales
Pink raised dry spots on the body and head may indicate psoriasis. With this dermatological pathology in humans, raised plaques appear on the skin – psoriatic papules. They protrude above the surface of the skin, cause intense itching and flake, tend to spread and merge.
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease in which rashes are most often localized on the elbows, head, knees and groin. Dry pink spots covered with white scales are foci of chronic inflammation. Under the influence of internal autoimmune processes, epidermal cells divide several times faster than necessary. As a result, small scales are constantly separated from dying skin cells.
Atopic dermatitis and its difference from psoriasis
Atopic dermatitis can also cause dry patches on the body. And as with psoriasis, they cause itching. Due to the increased sensitivity of the skin to environmental factors, the mechanisms of its self-regulation are violated, including the barrier function. That is, an allergy is a trigger for atopic dermatitis, but the tendency to such a skin reaction is genetically laid down.
Most often, atopic dermatitis occurs in children. The disease has a chronic course, when exacerbations are replaced by periods of remission. Here are the typical signs of atopic dermatitis:
- dry skin;
- peeling and redness of the eyelids;
- dry skin-colored plaques on the trunk and extensor areas of the body;
- cracks.
It is difficult for a person who does not have a medical education to distinguish psoriasis from atopic dermatitis, but a doctor can easily make a differential diagnosis. There are several differences that may speak in favor of a particular pathology. Atopic dermatitis often affects children, psoriasis can debut in adulthood. Psoriatic plaques are raised above the skin, and scales can be seen. Dry spots in atopic dermatitis are flat. It is also important to consider typical localization.
Useful links: State Center of Urology in Moscow – Clinic of Urology named after R. M. Fronshtein of the First Moscow State Medical University named after I.M. Sechenov
Dry eczema
Sometimes white, dry, scaly patches on the skin of the legs can indicate dry eczema. With this disease, dryness and tightness of the skin first occurs, then peeling and unbearable itching join, cracks may occur. In addition to the legs, the hands, the space between the fingers, and even the face are often affected.