Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions

Review the Skin Conditions document provided, and select two conditions to closely examine for this Discussion.

* Consider the abnormal physical characteristics you observe in the graphics you selected. How would you describe the characteristics using clinical terminologies?

* Explore different conditions that could be the cause of the skin abnormalities in the graphics you selected.

* Consider which of the conditions is most likely to be the correct diagnosis, and why.

** Write a description of the two graphics you selected (identify each graphic by number). Use clinical terminologies to explain the physical characteristics featured in each graphic. Formulate a differential diagnosis of three to five possible conditions for each. Determine which is most likely to be the correct diagnosis, and explain your reasoning.

USE CURRENT RESOURCES NOT OLDER THAN 5 YEARS.

Differential Diagnosis for Skin Conditions

            Abnormal physical characteristics; in figure 3, the morphology constitutes of nodules, pustules/ papules, and comedones (Healthline, 2012). The figure depicts a chronic and common skin condition of the pilosebaceous unit and the areas that are primarily affected are the back, chest, and face. In figure 4, the small raised bump is skin-colored and is likely to be rough on touch. The bumps resemble cauliflower or raspberries in appearance (Healthline, 2012).

            The selected figures resemble the appearances of a number of skins conditions. Therefore, this indicates the need for keen assessment to avoid misdiagnosis. Picture number 3 may indicate Acne, Pityriasis Rosea, or Hives. On the other hand, picture number 4 may represent Moles, Warts, Seborrheic Keratoses, Shingles, or Skin Tags.

            The most possible correct diagnosis for figure 3 is Acne. According to Healthline (2012), acne presents itself as a greasy skin and usually, there is a mixture of papules, pustules, and comedones. In addition, there is a likelihood of the condition presenting itself with acne lesions that are extended to the shoulders, chest, or back. People suffering from acne may develop widespread cysts or those that are in isolation and these are excessively painful. The most correct diagnosis for figure 4 is Warts. With Warts, there is a raised, small bump that appears on the skin, and the average size of the bump ranges from 1- 10 millimetres (Healthline, 2012). Usually, the Wart has a rough surface and may be in clusters or singly. The hands, knees, feet, and face are the mostly affected areas.

            The foregoing discussion has established that different skin conditions can appear similar. This emphasizes the need for keen diagnosis.

Reference

Healthline. (2012). Get the skinny on skin disorders. Retrieved on 23rd March, 2013 from