MED SURG Chapter 60 Glossary

alopecia: loss of hair from any cause

dermatosis: any abnormal skin condition
erythema: redness of the skin caused by congestion of the capillaries
hirsutism: the condition of having excessive hair growth
hyperpigmentation: increase in the melanin of the skin, resulting in an
increase in pigmentation
hypopigmentation: decrease in the melanin of the skin, resulting in a loss of
pigmentation
keratin: an insoluble, fibrous protein that forms the outer layer of skin
Langerhans cells: dendritic clear cells in the epidermis that carry surface
receptors for immunoglobulin and complement and that are active
participants in delayed hypersensitivity of the skin
melanin: the substance responsible for coloration of the skin
melanocytes: cells of the skin that produce melanin
Merkel cells: cells of the epidermis that play a role in transmission of
sensory messages
petechiae: pinpoint red spots that appear on the skin as a result of blood
leakage into the skin
rete ridges: undulations and furrows that appear at the dermis–epidermis
junction and are responsible for cementing together the two layers
sebaceous glands: glands that exist within the epidermis and secrete sebum
to keep the skin soft and pliable
sebum: fatty secretion of the sebaceous glands
telangiectasias: red marks on the skin caused by distention of the superficial
blood vessels
vitiligo: a localized or widespread condition characterized by destruction of
the melanocytes in circumscribed areas of the skin, resulting in white
patches
Wood’s light: ultraviolet light used for diagnosing skin conditions
Skin disorders are encountered frequently in nursing practice. Skin-related
disorders are common causes for ambulatory patient visits in the United
States. Because the skin mirrors the general condition of the patient, many
systemic conditions may be accompanied by dermatologic manifestations.
Any patient who is hospitalized may suddenly develop itching and a rash
from the treatment regimen. The psychological stress of illness or various
personal and family problems may be exhibited outwardly as dermatologic
problems. In certain systemic conditions, such as hepatitis and some
cancers, dermatologic manifestations may be the first sign of the disorder
and the main reason a patient seeks health care.