Congenital Melanocytic Nevus (Naevus)(CMN) These are melanocytic naevi (nevi) (“moles”) which are present at birth. The melanocytic naevi vary greatly in size but can exceed 20cm of diameter. They are generally located on the trunk. They can develop into cancers (melanoma). Therefore, they should be excised if it is possible, although for esthetic reasons, it…
Actinic keratosis Dr Christophe HSU – dermatologist. Geneva, Switzerland These lesions are seen on the sun-exposed skin especially on the face, upper chest, back and forearms. When they are located on the lips, they are called actinic cheilitis. They appear as scaly reddish or brown patches on the skin. Numerous lesions may occur at the…
This presents as a firm irregular fleshy growth usually on sun exposed skin. The growth can increase rapidly in size giving rise to a large lump which may sometimes break down to form an ulcer. If untreated, the cancer may spread to the surrounding lymph glands. SCC usually appears in elderly patients. Chronic sun exposure…
This is a cancer of the pigment cells of the skin. It is a highly malignant skin cancer. It presents as dark brown or black skin growth or ulcer. It may look like ordinary moles. But unlike the common mole: it grows rapidly its surface has several shades of red, black or blue colours its…
The cause of seborrhoeic dermatitis is unknown. A yeast called Malassezia which is present in the normal skin flora could be implicated. There are two types of seborrhoeic dermatitis: (i) infantile seborrhoeic dermatitis – commonly seen in newborns and babies (ii) adult seborrhoeic dermatitis – commonly seen in middle-aged adults. Seborrhoeic dermatitis presents with yellowish,…
There is another vascular birthmark. They present as flat red patches on the eyelids and the skin of the cheek at birth. Unlike strawberry naevus, portwine stains never disappear spontaneously as the child grows older: The vascular birthmarks increase in thickness and small blebs of blood vessels may be seen. Agsin, these growths do not…
These are vascular birthmarks. It can appear as a large red soft growth on any part of the body. The growth will continue to enlarge and grow as the baby grows old but the growth will slowly regress spontaneously when the child is 3-4 years old: If the vascular growths are small, they can be…
