Professor Chris Bunker

Professor Chris Bunker
Dermatology
North London


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Professor Chris Bunker

Dermatologist in
London

FRCPsych


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Professor Chris Bunker areas of expertise:

Professional statement

Professor Christopher Bunker is a well-known consultant dermatologist with over 30 years of experience in general dermatology, specialising in HIV dermatology and male genital dermatology. He was educated and trained in a number of prestigious institutions such as Cambridge, Westminster Medical School, and University College Hospital. A fellowship with the Sir Jules Thorn Charitable Trust in clinical research lead to him being awarded a Cambridge University prize for his MD thesis. He has also received a National Silver Clinical Excellence for his work.

Committed to research, he takes special interest in complex medical and inpatient dermatology which ranges from drug reactions to toxic epidermal necrolysis. He has published numerous papers, books and case reports, and shares his experience by training other consultants and medical students. He has held a number of distinguished posts such as President of British Association of Dermatologists. 

 

Diseases, Medical Tests and Treatments

Dermatopathology

Dermatology is a medical specialty that deals with the study, prevention and treatment of human skin and its diseases, as well as dermocosmetic techn ...

HIV

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a disease that is passed on in the bodily fluids. It is a virus that attacks the immune system. AIDS is the fina ...

Acne

What is acne? Acne, otherwise known as acne vulgaris is a very common skin condition, usually featuring blackhead and whitehead spots, which happe ...

Alopecia

What is alopecia? Alopecia is the medical term for hair loss. It is an umbrella term which includes many different types which each have their own ...

Angioma

What are angiomas? Angiomas are tumours which are non-cancerous (benign), made up of small blood vessels. They appear on the surface of the skin and can be located on any part of the body. There are different types of angioma including cherry angioma, spider angioma, and angiokeratomas. These tumours are harmless but patients may wish to have them removed for aesthetic reasons. What are the symptoms of angioma? Angioma can occur on any part of the body, and they look different depending on the type. Cherry angioma: Usually purple, blue, black, or red coloured Are on top of the skin as a growth Come in single form or in clusters Can grow to ¼ of an inch in size If struck, they bleed considerably Spider angioma: Are more common in childhood and pregnancy Can be frequently food on the neck, face, arms, fingers, and back of hands Are below the surface of the skin and have a single red spot with extensions coming from it (thus the name ‘spider angioma’) Angiokeratoma Creates small marks on the skin which are red and blue Often look like warts Feel hard and do not fade when compressed What causes angiomas? The exact cause is unknown, but certain people may be more likely to get them because of genetic disposition. They are often connected with age, and they are also linked to chemical exposure, particular medical conditions, and some arise in pregnancy. Cherry angiomas are associated with ageing, and seem to appear more in individuals over 30, becoming more common in older age. How are angiomas treated? Because angiomas are benign, treatment isn’t particularly necessary, but some people do choose to have angiomas removed for cosmetic reasons. If the angioma is in a position which causes it to bleed frequently because it is knocked, this means it may need to be removed. There are several treatment options for angiomas, including freezing the lesion, burning the angioma, having laser surgery performed, or having the angioma removed through excision. In some cases surgery may be an option to cut out the angioma. Depending on the size of the angioma you may need more than one treatment session. Surgery or treatment can leave behind bruising or scarring, but this clears up after a while. How can angiomas be prevented? The cause of angiomas is not known, so prevention is not really considered. Angiomas are also not cancerous, so they are nothing to worry about if you do develop one. You may decide to have them removed, but this is easily achieved and a dermatologist or expert in aesthetic medicine can easily advise the best course of treatment.  ...

Atopic dermatitis

What is atopic dermatitis? Atopic dermatitis (or atopic eczema) is a chronic inflammation of the skin that results in an itchy rash. It is more common in children than adults. This condition is “atopic” because it does not affect a specific area; it can affect several different areas of the body and is not necessarily where the skin is in direct contact with an allergen. Prognosis: Atopic dermatitis is a long-term condition. There is no decisive cure as of yet, however, with adequate treatment, the symptoms can be controlled. In some cases, the condition goes away on its own during puberty. If the condition becomes chronic - that is, you still suffer from it when you are an adult, its symptoms may become more severe with time. What are the symptoms of atopic dermatitis? When atopic dermatitis starts showing its first symptoms, a child may have: Dry skin; Erythema, blisters, crusting and eczema on the skin. If the condition becomes chronic in adults, the symptoms will be more severe and you may also suffer from: Hyperkeratosis (thickening of the skin); Papules on the skin; Intense itching; Anal fissures, sometimes with blood; Increased sensitivity to skin infections. How is it diagnosed? A dermatologist will analyse your rashes with: A physical examination; A patch test (some allergens are placed on your skin to see if there is a reaction to them); Biopsy (in rarer cases, this is done to exclude other potential, more severe conditions related to atopic dermatitis); Allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) test; Skin-prick testing; Screening tests for breathing problems, such as asthma, rhinitis and rhino-conjunctivitis, which may lead to developing atopic dermatitis. What causes atopic dermatitis? Atopic dermatitis is a multi-causal disease, that is, a condition caused by several concurrent factors. The most common causes include: Genetic predisposition; An anomaly in the activity of the enzymes that make the natural hydro-lipid film which protects the skin; Stress; Exposure to allergens or irritants; Sweating. How can atopic dermatitis be prevented? It is rather hard to prevent atopic dermatitis. However, you can prevent it from becoming chronic in children and you can take a number of steps to reduce its symptoms (however severe it may be and regardless of your age): Choose delicate products for washing and taking care of your skin; Wear loose clothes, made of cotton, linen or other natural fibres; Be very careful when choosing cosmetics and make-up, making sure they are allergen- and fragrance-free. How is atopic dermatitis treated? Your dermatologist may prescribe: Topical corticosteroids; Emollient creams or ointments, which can help with ongoing rashes; Antihistamines, antibiotics or antiviral medications; Phototherapy (if it could help you); As we have mentioned, many of these treatments will help in reducing the symptoms, however, adults with chronic atopic dermatitis will probably never cure it completely. Which doctor should I talk to? To diagnose and treat this condition, you will need to see a dermatologist. ...

Couperosis

The blotches (telangiectasia of the face) is the dilation of the small veins of the face that may have ramifications, causing unsightly skin. It usually appears in white women or thin skin, especially in those with sensitive skin, prone to redness. Its appearance occurs mainly in cheekbones and nostrils, drawn shaped purple or rojizos. The best treatment for these injuries is vascular laser, which is very reliable and highly effective. Generally, to carry out this treatment local anaesthesia is required to reduce pain, as well as the application of cold in the area to avoid damaging the skin. This technique is basically the application of laser light on the treatment area, which penetrates the skin without damaging it. The effect of the heat of the laser reaches the vein to be treated, causing blood clotting and closure. Thus, the gradual removal of vascular lesions treated achieved. ...

Cryo-sclerotherapy

What is liquid cryo-sclerotherapy? Liquid cryo-sclerotherapy is a technique that promotes the gradual elimination of micro varicose veins and capillaries from the legs.  Why is it performed? Liquid cryo-sclerotherapy is a simple and quick technique that removes micro varicose veins safely and effectively. However, it not only improves the aesthetic appearance of varicose veins, but also reduces pressure on the circulatory system, minimises pain, and the sensation of heavy legs. What does it involve? It consists of introducing a sclerosing product into the blood capillary at a temperature of around -40⁰. The low temperature irritates the capillary wall, thus causing a hardening of the capillary, a process known as sclerosis. This results in the disappearance of the micro varicose vein.  During the procedure, you may notice a slight stinging sensation and redness of the area due to the cold, which will disappear within 24-48 hours.  This procedure offers good results and prevents the subsequent appearance of pigmentation that may occur with other sclerosing procedures. The syringe used for the procedure has two compartments: the inner compartment contains the sclerosing product and the outer compartment contains the carbonic snow that provides the cold necessary for the sclerosing liquid to remain at -40⁰ throughout the session.  How to prepare for it No special preparation is necessary for liquid cryosclerosis. Post-treatment care No specific care is necessary after liquid cryo-sclerotherapy. However, you should avoid sun exposure, so it is best to have the cryo-sclerotherapy treatment in winter or when you are not planning to sunbathe. The treatment is generally well tolerated. Any redness or stinging sensation will disappear within 24-48 hours, and you may notice a purplish colour appear during the 15 days following treatment, which will disappear within a few days. In any case, all you need to do is apply a cream. ...

Dandruff and seborrhea

Dandruff is a condition of the scalp. This condition causes white flakes of skin to appear and sometimes it can be associated with other skin problems such as seborrhoea or psoriasis. The treatment of dandruff varies according to the severity of each case, but it includes several cosmetic medications aimed at treating its causes and decreasing the symptoms of itching and redness of the skin. Typically, shampoos or solutions are prescribed with an antifungal active principle, intended to inhibit microbial proliferation, and combined with anti-seborrhoeic and antipruritic substances. Seborrhoea is a disorder of the sebaceous glands that produce excessive secretion of fat or sebum, causing the hair to have a greasy and shiny appearance. There could be very different causes (stress, hormonal, genetic, some medications, food). Treatment of seborrhoea depends on the cause and may include shampoos or lotions with selenium and zinc pitirione, or medication to treat the associated pathology. ...

Eczema

What is eczema? Eczema, also known as dermatitis, encompasses a set of skin conditions that usually cause a rash and inflammation. In most cases, the skin reddens, itches, and may peel or even form blisters. The severity varies depending on the patient. Eczema can be divided into several types, the most common being atopic eczema and contact eczema.   Atopic eczema Atopic eczema (the most common variant) is characterized by the presence of scaly and reddish lesions, often located in the creases of the elbows and knees, although it is not uncommon to appear in other places, such as the hands. Babies may develop atopic eczema on their scalp or cheeks. “Atopic” refers to a group of allergic conditions that are thought to have a genetic component, which often occur together in the same individual, particularly during childhood. The other two common atopic conditions are asthma and hay fever (allergic rhinitis).   Contact eczema Contact eczema appears in the form of scaly patches, blisters, hives and redness caused by irritation due to harmful substances or by an allergy to certain substances that have come into contact with the skin.   What are the symptoms of eczema? Almost all cases of eczema feature the following symptoms: Redness Itching A rash In the case of atopic eczema, the following can also occur: Small bumps, which may leak fluid when scratched The skin may appear lighter or darker where affected by the rash The skin can become infected if scratched Contact eczema may display the following symptoms: Itching, burning and stinging sensations Hives (small, itchy bumps) Fluid-filled blisters Thick, scaly, or leathery skin may develop over time. There are other, rarer forms of eczema, such as nummular eczema and stasis dermatitis, which may cause other symptoms, such as round patches of scaly skin (nummular), or swelling in the legs (stasis).   Causes of eczema Factors that can cause eczema include other diseases, contact with irritants, allergens and individual genetic constitution. As an allergic condition, the symptoms are the result of the body’s immune system reacting abnormally to an external substance. Atopic eczema is likely the result of a combination of Genetic factors A flaw in the immune system Dry skin An environmental trigger Contact eczema is usually the result of touching a toxic substance or irritant, or an allergic reaction to something you have touched. Common triggers include: Detergent Latex Certain metals (e.g. in jewellery) Soap Perfume Make-up or skin-care products Solvents Paint Bleach Toxic plants (e.g. poison ivy)   Can eczema be prevented? The main measures to prevent the flare-ups of eczema involve avoiding contact with substances that irritate the skin. Limiting contact with water is also recommended, for instance, by taking shorter baths and showers, using warm, rather than hot water, and wearing gloves when washing up. Measure such as moisturising the skin regularly, and only using gentle soaps are also beneficial.   What is the treatment for eczema? There are a number of ways to treat eczema, depending on the individual case. The recommended treatment for allergic contact eczema will be mainly to avoid being surrounded by the trigger substance and to avoid scratching the rash. Once the trigger is detected and eliminated, corticosteroid drugs or creams, antihistamines, moisturizing creams and antibiotics may be prescribed. Some doctors may recommend therapies such as biofeedback, light therapy, or the application of wet dressings for atopic dermatitis. Even after the eczema disappears, it is recommended to continue with the indicated treatment for a few more days. ...

Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that forms from the skin cells called melanocytes, which give the skin its pigment. This type of skin cancer can also be called malignant melanoma and is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, with a mortality rate of around 20% if the cancer goes undetected.   What causes melanoma?   Melanoma is most often caused by over-exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. It is more common in older people due to the cumulative effect of years of exposure to the sun, and is especially common in areas of the body that are more exposed to the sun such as the face, back of the neck, hands and arms. Due to this, melanoma is also more common in people with a fair complexion, and with people that have been sunburnt as a child. Having said that, it is a myth that people with darker skin are not affected, as they also carry a risk if not protected from the sun. Where they commonly develop in areas that receive a lot of sun exposure in fair coloured skin, in darker skin types they more commonly develop on the soles of the feet, palms of the hand and in the finger nail beds, and can easily go unnoticed. Melanoma can also be genetic, with around 5% of cases of melanoma thought to be genetically passed on.   What are the symptoms of melanoma?   Melanomas are often noticed by the person rather than diagnosed by a doctor. A sign of a melanoma is a mole that changes shape or size, or that the border of the outline changes and becomes more blurred. Another symptom is when a new mole, or pigmented section of skin appears where there was nothing before. The key for checking a mole to look for signs of melanoma is the ABCDE acronym for the characteristics of melanoma:   Asymmterical shape such as two halves of a mole having a different shape irregular Border when the mole has a ‘notched’ outline Change in colour such as uneven colours or multiple colours Diameter when the size changes, or when a mole is bigger than 6 millimeters in diameter. Evolving If the mole changes overtime, or develops other symptoms such as itchiness or bleeding.   Melanoma treatments   The treatment of the melanoma depends on the type of melanoma, the severity and the position on the body, and whether the cancer has spread. Some of the options available to your doctor include surgery, with different methods available to remove the melanoma. Radiotherapy may be considered if the cancer has spread, or it may be decided that a melanoma vaccine is the best option, which aims to kill the cells using the body’s own defence mechanisms. This form of treatment is still being developed. If you are concerned you may have a melanoma, and would like to be diagnosed. Make an appointment with a specialist here: https://www.topdoctors.co.uk/melanoma ...

Melasma

What is melasma? Melasma, also known as cholasma, is a skin condition where patches of skin on the face take on a light or dark brown colour. It’s more noticeable in the summer, because these patches tend to tan more than the parts which are not affected. Melasma is a common condition, affecting women much more than men , and women who are pregnant in particular. Is melasma a serious condition? Melasma is not contagious, and it doesn’t develop into skin cancer or other health conditions. However, there is no cure for melasma, though there are a number of treatments (see below). If melasma occurs during pregnancy, the condition is likely to disappear again after a few months. Symptoms of melasma Melasma appears as darker patches of the face, usually the cheeks and nose. Patches might be small at first but grow larger over time. Unlike moles, they are flat, not raised. In some cases, you might get patches of dark skin on the neck and arms. There is no itchiness or soreness, or any pain from melasma – the only symptom is the cosmetic difference it makes to your skin. Medical tests to diagnose melasma Melasma is usually straightforward to diagnose simply by looking at the pigmentation of the skin and the pattern made by the patches. In some cases, however, a dermatologist might recommend taking a small sample of skin to examine. This operation should be quick and will involve the use of local anaesthetic. What are the causes of melasma? What causes melasma is unknown. However, there are a lot of things that can increase your chances of developing the condition: having a darker skin type pregnancy use of contraceptive medication a family history of the condition sun exposure Treatments for melasma There is a certain amount that you can do yourself to manage melasma and improve the appearance of your skin. A dermatologist can also offer some options for treatment if these strategies haven’t worked. What can I do? Protect yourself from the sun – sun protection is important not only to manage melasma but to reduce your chances of developing skin cancer. You can reduce your exposure to the sun by using a high-factor suncream (30 and above), wearing a hat when it’s sunny outside, and avoiding the use of tanning salons. Skin lightening creams – some skin lightening creams can be purchased over the counter, but might not be as effective as those prescribed by a dermatologist (see below). Cover-up makeup – some brands of makeup are designed to cover up darker marks, and you might be able to get a recommendation from a dermatologist. What can a dermatologist offer? Prescription skin-lightening creams – these often contain a chemical called hydroquinone which prevents skin cells from producing melanin. There are side effects to the use of this cream, including skin irritation, and it does not work for everyone, so you can only get this cream on prescription from a doctor. Surgical procedures – a number of procedures can treat melasma, including microneedling, chemical peels, and laser therapy. Each type of procedure has associated risks and could make the condition worse, so it should be performed by an experienced specialist. Skin camouflage – a skin camouflage service can provide a cream that matches your skin type and covers up any dark patches on your skin. There are around 80 skin camouflage clinics in the UK offering advice and skin products for a range of skin conditions. ...

Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a skin disease caused by a virus that manifests as papules or small lumps on the skin. It is a very common infection in children spread by contact with contaminated objects (clothes, toys) and usually appears on the face, neck, armpits, arms or hands. ...

Pemphigus

Pemphigus is a group of rare diseases that affect the immune system. They cause blisters on the skin and mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, throat or genitals.   ...

Psoriasis

What is psoriasis? Psoriasis is a condition that affects the skin, causing patches of red rash, and flaky patches of silvery skin, which can sometimes be itchy or sore. The condition can present anywhere, but is most common on the scalp, elbows, knees and lower back. It can affect men and women of any age, but is more common in adults under 35 years old. It is non-contagious and the severity differs between people, with some only affected a little, and others affected greatly. Psoriasis is a chronic condition, meaning that it lasts a long time. It usually has periods with mild or no symptoms, followed by periods of more severe symptoms. What are the different types? The most common types of psoriasis are as follows: Plaque psoriasis The most common form of psoriasis, and shows as raised, red patches of skin covered with silvery patches of dry skin, known as plaques. Plaques can appear anywhere, but usually appear on elbows, knees, lower back and scalp. The plaques can be sore and itchy, and may crack and bleed in some cases. Nail psoriasis The nails are affected in around half of the people with psoriasis. Small dents may appear, and the nails may become discoloured or grow abnormally. The nails can become loose and separate from the nail bed, and in severe cases the nails may crumble. Guttate psoriasis This form often starts in childhood, and appears in the form of small, dot like lesions. It is the second most common form of psoriasis. This form often starts after a throat infection, but in most cases will disappear after a few weeks. Inverse psoriasis Folds of the skin such as elbows, knees, groin, buttocks and under the breasts are usually affected by this form. It appears as large, red smooth patches, and becomes worse by friction and sweating. Pustular psoriasis This is characterised by small, white blisters surrounded by red skin. It is not an infection, or contagious and can affect any part of the body, particularly the hands and feet. What are the causes of psoriasis? The cause of psoriasis is unknown, but is due to the skin cells being replaced more quickly than usual, which is possibly a problem with the immune system. The normal process for skin cell production is the production of the new cell in the deeper layers of the skin, the new cells gradually move up through the layers, until they reach the top layer, where they then die and flake off. This usually takes around three to four weeks. With psoriasis, the process only takes three to seven days, causing a build-up of skin cells that are not ready to flake off. Psoriasis can sometimes be triggered due to injury, stress, smoking, drinking alcohol and certain medications. What is the treatment? Mild psoriasis can be treated with skin creams. These can reduce swelling, soreness, itching and reduce the rate of skin cell growth. These may include steroid creams, moisturisers, and coal tar especially in the form of a psoriasis shampoo. More severe forms of psoriasis may be treated with phototherapy. The treatment exposes your skin to ultraviolet light which helps to treat the condition. You may be prescribed a medicine to help cure problems with your immune system that may be leading to psoriasis. ...

Rash

Rashes are irritations that appear on the skin. There are different types, depending on the colour and the texture that they present as well as the causes. The most common are contact dermatitis, which appears as a reaction of skin contact with certain products (from soaps, to materials such as latex or rubber); seborrheic dermatitis, a harmless rash that manifests itself with red areas and flaking, especially on the face and torso, usually caused by stress or the use of lotions or soaps that contain alcohol. In addition, there are numerous conditions that show skin rashes as symptoms: childhood diseases such as chickenpox or measles; herpes zoster virus; psoriasis and eczema; insect bites or reactions to certain medications. Treatment for skin rashes depends on the causes, and can range from creams to oral medications. ...

Rosacea

What is rosacea? Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes a facial rash, which may include red blotches, telangiectasia (spider veins), pimples or spots, and possibly a burning sensation on the skin of the cheeks, nose, chin and forehead. It is a long-term pathology that appears more frequently in middle-aged people and can vary in intensity.   What are the symptoms of rosacea? Rosacea can manifest as several symptoms, including: Redness of the face (often giving the appearance of blushing) Bumps or pimples on the skin Patches of rough, dry skin Swelling, particularly around the nose and eyes (a bulbous red nose is a common indicator of severe rosacea) A burning or stinging sensation Telangiectasia (spider veins – thin and reddish lines form under the skin because the blood vessels under the skin are enlarged. Eye problems, including itching, dryness, swelling, light-sensitivity, bloodshot or watery appearance, etc. Different patients may experience a different selection of symptoms, the most common being the unexplained redness of the face, which often bears a resemblance to acne (although the two are distinct conditions). Rosacea tends to flare up in cycles, with patients suffering symptoms for a period of weeks or months, before the symptoms disappear for a similar period.   What are the causes of rosacea? The cause of rosacea is unknown but there are several factors that are thought to contribute to or worsen it. For example excessive consumption of alcohol, caffeine or hot and spicy food is thought to trigger episodes, as can intense physical activity. Other factors include: Age – rosacea occurs most commonly in people between 30 and 50 years of age. Skin type – fair-skinned people seem to be more susceptible (especially those with blond hair and blue eyes). Genetics – family history of the condition means you are more likely to suffer from rosacea. It it also more common in people of Celtic and Scandinavian ancestry. Hormonal changes (e.g. the menopause) Sudden changes in temperature Exposure to sun or wind Stress Some medications Certain bacteria, e.g. helicobacter pylori   Can rosacea be prevented? Rosacea is not a pathology that can be prevented, but you can still avoid severe episodes by starting treatment as soon as possible when symptoms flare up, and keeping your skin hydrated. Other tips include identifying and avoiding the things that a flare-up, avoiding products that irritate the skin, and generally taking care of your skin, by using sun cream, make-up suited to our skin type, and gentle shampoos and gels to avoid further irritation.   What is the treatment for rosacea? Although there is no cure, the symptoms can be managed. Rosacea can triggered by different things in different patients, so treatment differs accordingly. The doctor may prescribe drugs, such as antibiotics and tetracycline derivatives, topical preparations, or laser or intense pulsed light therapies. ...

Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin disease characterised mainly by the appearance of white or yellowish scales on the body parts where more fat tissue can be found, such as the face, scalp or inside the ear. If seborrheic dermatitis affects babies, it is called cradle cap. Currently there is no known cause of seborrheic dermatitis. It seems to be hereditary but can also be caused by hormone levels, weak immune system, lack of nutrients or a fungus called Malassezia.     ...

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a set of infectious diseases caused by different microorganisms. They all have in common that they are spread, most of the time, through sexual intercourse. More than 20 STIs are known, including chlamydia and lymphogranuloma, gonorrhoea, genital herpes, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), genital warts caused by human papillomavirus, syphilis and trichomoniasis. Although most STDs affect both men and women, women have the most serious health problems. Not all STDs can be cured: those caused by bacteria, such as chlamydia, are treated with antibiotics, but in those that are caused by viruses, such as genital herpes, treatment is limited to alleviating the symptoms. ...

Shingles (herpes zoster)

What is shingles? Shingles is a viral infection that causes a tender and painful rash which most commonly presents either on the right or left hand side of the torso. You can also get shingles on your face, eyes and genitals. Shingles is not life-threatening, but it can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. What are the symptoms of shingles? The first signs of shingles is usually a pain felt in the area of skin, a headache and generally feeling unwell. A few days after these symptoms, a rash will present. The shingles rash is red, blotchy and appears on just one side of your body. The red blotches turn into small, itchy blisters that ooze fluid. Eventually these blisters dry out and form little scabs. Even after the rash has gone, the area of skin affected can remain painful. The rash can take up to 4 weeks to heal. Other symptoms experienced with shingles include: fatigue sensitivity to light fever What causes shingles? Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes the chickenpox. Anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles as the virus stays in your nervous system, remaining dormant for years. If the virus reactivates, it moves along the nerve pathways resulting in shingles. Shingles is not contagious to people who have had chickenpox. For people who not had the chickenpox, exposure to shingles can cause them to come down with the chickenpox. This can be dangerous in older people, pregnant women, newborns and people with weakened immune systems. How can shingles be prevented? There are two vaccines that can help avoid shingles. The first is the chickenpox vaccine which is usually given to adults who have never had the chickenpox. This vaccine cannot guarantee you against the chickenpox, but it can significantly reduce your chances. The second preventative measure is the shingles vaccine. This is available in the UK to people over the age of 70 or 78. This vaccine proved to be ineffective on people aged over 80 however. Even if you do contract shingles after the vaccine, the symptoms will be much milder. For people with shingles, they should avoid work or school until the rash scabs over. How is shingles treated? To treat shingles, there are some techniques to relieve the discomfort, including: over-the-counter painkillers wearing loose-fitting clothing use cooling creams use a cool compress wrapped in a towel a few times a day There are also a couple of measures to avoid: do not let plasters pr dressings stick to the rash do not use antibiotic cream as this slows the healing process Although there is no cure for shingles, you can take anti-viral medication to reduce the risk of complications and to help the healing process. For people experiencing severe pain, prescription painkillers will be considered. ...

Skin allergies

Skin allergies are an immune reaction that is produced by the presence or contact with certain substances or products (allergens). Reactions can vary depending on the product that causes the allergy to the person: perfumes, lotions, cosmetics, flowers, foods. In addition, there are different types of skin allergies: food allergy, contact dermatitis, and atopy. The common symptoms that cause skin allergies are skin rashes, inflammation, redness, burning, pruritus or itching, but severe complications may occur depending on the case. It is therefore important to consult with a specialist when these symptoms appear and which are often sudden and sometimes can cause suffocation or choking and put the patient's health at risk. The treatment usually involves taking antihistamines to attack the allergy and its symptoms as a first step. But then it is recommended to perform allergy tests to identify the allergen that causes that reaction in the body and to be able to treat it directly. In most cases, avoiding the substances that cause the allergy is enough. ...

Skin fungus

Skin fungus can produce infectious diseases called cutaneous mycoses. The symptoms are redness, itching, and stinging in the affected area. There are two types of fungi: yeast or candida which cause candidiasis, and dermatophytes, which cause dermatophytosis or tinea. ...

Skin infections

Cutaneous infections are skin diseases that are caused by the attack of different types of germs, which provoke a local reaction in which different cells and microorganisms present in the skin are destroyed. Initially, the affected area becomes inflamed and presents a reddish, stinging and burning sensation, which usually ends up causing an abscess and an ulcer on the skin, or a fistula. The most frequent infections can be classified according to their origin: bacterial, like staphylococcus or impetigo; viral, such as warts, molluscum contagiosum or herpes simplex; those caused by fungi, such as candida infections; or those caused by skin parasites such as scabies or lice. The treatment of cutaneous infections depends on the causes, although in most cases it will be necessary to clean the lesion with hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, and apply creams that contain antibiotics or take the antibiotics orally, as determined by the specialist. ...

Skin patches

What are skin blemishes? Human skin is prone to all kinds of spots and stains. Most of the time these are harmless, but it’s important to be able to identify them, to know what they are, and to take action if necessary. Dark stains on the skin are known as hyperpigmentation. Some people may find them distressing if they can’t be hidden or disguised on areas where they tend to appear: the face, hands and other parts exposed to the sun. Hyperpigmentation occurs when the body produces an excess of melanin in certain areas of the skin. This results in flat patches of skin that have a darker colour, ranging from light brown to black, and which can vary in size and shape. There are many different types, but the most common ones are: Pigment stains (such as age spots) à These are small, dark patches caused mainly by exposure to the sun, and therefore appear on exposed areas: face, hands and arms. Melasma or chloasma (‘mask of pregnancy’) à Appears in the form of dark, irregular patches on the face or arms. It affects 90% of pregnant women, and women taking the contraceptive pill, due to hormonal changes. Inflammatory hyperpigmentation à Appears when a skin injury heals and leaves a flat stain with an altered colour. It is common in people with acne and may also be caused by cosmetic procedures. Signs of skin stains The main sign of skin blemishes or patches is a change in the colour of some areas of skin. These are painless, as already mentioned, and can have many causes. They are usually harmless, but a dermatology specialist should take a close look at them nonetheless. What causes skin stains? Hyperpigmentation of the skin is the response to an overproduction of melanin (a pigment that gives the skin, hair and eyes their natural colour).  Stains on the skin appear in the form of patches and can be triggered by a variety of factors. The most common causes of stains are sun exposure, genetic factors, age, hormonal changes, and skin injury or infection. Can they be prevented? Some stains can be prevented, but others are unavoidable. To prevent the appearance of certain stains, you should avoid too much exposure to the sun and should use a high sun protection factor. Any potential hormonal effects caused by medications can be discussed with a specialist. What does treatment involve? There are two commonly-used treatments: chemical peel and laser therapy. The former consists of applying an acid solution to the affected area to remove the superficial layers of the skin. The chemical solution causes the skin to blister, and then peel, resulting in the appearance of new, uniform skin. The second treatment, laser therapy, has almost the same effect as the chemical peel but is more precise, since the dermatologist has more control over the procedure. Laser therapy involves ‘hitting’ the affected areas with a high intensity light. Some treatments are mild, acting only on the skin's epidermis or superficial layer, and others are more intense, penetrating the deeper layers of the skin. Although they are widely used, these treatments are slightly invasive, to a greater or lesser extent depending on your skin type. They may irritate, inflame or burn the skin, causing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. New treatments have emerged in recent years using hydroquinone, arbutin, kojic acid, vitamin C derivatives, retinoic acid derivatives, azelaic acid, B-resorcinol or butylresorcinol, as well as jojoba oil or lemon juice, or following a sugar-free diet. All of these are effective ways to treat hyperpigmentation. ...

Studies of skin types

What are skin type studies? Skin type studies determine whether we have mixed, oily, dry, sensitive or normal skin. This is carried out by a dermatologist.  Why skin type studies performed? The passage of time, or external factors such as sun exposure, environmental impact, some diseases, hormonal changes, certain medications or food, affect the skin. A skin study can be performed to find out what type of skin you have, as each person requires a personalised treatment based on the characteristics of their skin. The study provides information about the skin’s level of hydration, elasticity, thickness and sebaceous secretion. The classification includes four basic types: Dry skin which suffers greater water loss and is less protected against potential damage Oily skin with high sebaceous secretion Sensitive skin which is highly reactive to stimuli Normal skin which has a good balance of water and sebum levels. You can learn which type of skin you have by going to a specialist and having a skin type study performed. This will help prevent future skin problems and you will learn which creams, shampoos and soaps are best for your skin type. How to prepare for a skin type study: No specific preparation is necessary. However, for the specialist to be able to analyse the skin correctly, the face must be well washed and free of make-up and other cosmetic products. What do you feel during a skin type study? The test is completely painless with no discomfort. What about abnormal results? It is unlikely you will have abnormal results. However, if the dermatologist discovers any kind of skin lesion, they will advise you of any action you need to take. ...

Sun allergy

What is photosensitivity? Photosensitivity, commonly known as sun allergy, is the skin’s reaction to sun exposure. Symptoms may be different to other dermatological issues. Among the most common reactions, the following stand out:     Polymorphic light eruption (PLE); is more common in women and people who are fair, but it can affect men and people with dark skin. It appears as lumps and bumps a few hours after having sunbathed, it is most common on the face and neckline, but can also affect the back of the arms and the legs.     Solar urticaria; less common that the previous one, it tends to appear as large hives, similar to an insect bite. It affects both men and women and can appear on any area of the body. It appears minutes after exposure to natural sunlight or artificial light. Actinic prurigo; is a rare reaction to sunlight in which the skin thickens, it tends to affect the elderly.       What are the symptoms? The main symptoms of sun allergy are itching, pain, and skin redness that tend to appear a few hours or days after exposure. Some less common symptoms may appear, such as; headache, nausea, or chills.      Causes of photosensitivity The causes for photosensitivity remain unknown, although it is known that symptoms appear when there is prolonged exposure to UVA and / or UVB rays (particularly in spring and summer). It is one of the main primary idiopathic photodermatoses.     How can it be prevented?   To prevent sun allergy it is very important to protect your skin with sunscreen and wear appropriate clothing. People with sensitive skin are recommended to avoid using perfumes, deodorant, and cosmetics when in the sun. What is the treatment?   Treatment for photosensitivity mainly focuses on protecting yourself from the sun, although in more severe cases you may be prescribed antihistamines, corticosteroids, or antimalarials.   ...

Vascular malformations

This is a congenital malformation of the blood vessel and can appear in the veins, capillaries, arteries and lymph vessels. There are different types of vascular malformations that differ in accordance with which blood vessel is affected. They are present from birth and increase in size with age. ...

Vitiligo

What is vitiligo? Vitiligo is a condition that consists of a progressive depigmentation of the skin in different areas of the body causing white spots. The depigmented areas of the skin can manifest themselves in different ways – either spread over the body or in specific locations (for example, only on one side of the body). Its appearance can arise at any age. What are the symptoms of vitiligo? The main and visible symptoms of vitiligo are white spots on the skin. These are more common in those areas more exposed to the sun such as hands, feet, arms, face or lips. Other areas may include the armpits, groin, eyes, nostrils, navel, genitals and rectal areas. Often people with this condition have grey hair prematurely and those with dark skin may notice a loss of colour inside their mouth. What causes vitiligo? This disease is caused by the destruction of certain cells known as melanocytes which are responsible for the creation of melanin, a pigment in the skin. Though the causes are not clear, vitiligo is associated with conditions of an autoimmune origin, such as Addison's disease or diabetes. Can vitiligo be prevented? Due to the lack of conclusive studies about the cause of vitiligo, there is no absolute way to prevent this disease. One way to try and prevent vitiligo is to avoid sun exposure, especially at times when the heat intensity is high. Applying sun lotion may help too. What is the treatment for vitiligo? Depending on the severity of each case - the number of spots, the rate of spread and the patient's preferences, the treatment will vary. Not all treatments are appropriate for all patients. A large number of treatment options may involve unexpected side effects, or may be prolonged and sometimes, without the desired results being achieved. There are certain medications that can be applied directly to the skin or taken orally oral, which can be combined with ultraviolet light to remove the white spots. Surgical treatments include skin grafts taken from the patient's own tissue. Tattoos have been used as well, especially for those who have small affected areas. Thirdly, using sun lotions can help, and using makeup or dyes to cover the white spots. ...

Warts

Warts are small skin lesions or growths that are usually painless and harmless. There are many types of warts: Common warts usually appear on the hands and are common in children. Genital warts grow on the genitals an surrounding areas. They are caused by the human papilloma virus and it is advisable to see a doctor if symptoms occur Plantar warts appear on the soles of the feet and can be very painful. There are also subungual and periungual warts that are underneath or around the fingernails or toenails. ...

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    Dr Hélène Menagé
    Dermatologist

    Expert in:

    • Skin allergies
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    • Acne
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    • Skin cancer
    • Eczema
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    Dr James Shelley
    Dermatologist

    Expert in:

    • Eczema
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    Dr Raj Mallipeddi
    Dermatologist

    Expert in:

    • Cosmetic dermatology
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    • Skin cancer
    • Mohs surgery
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    • Photodynamic therapy
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