Clinical meaning
Integumentary Pathophysiology: Epidermal involves pathological changes in skin structure and function through disruptions in keratinocyte differentiation, melanocyte function, or immune surveillance within the cutaneous microenvironment.
Diagnosis & workup
Diagnostics & workup: - Full skin exam with dermoscopy for pigmented lesions - Biopsy (punch, shave, or excisional) based on lesion type - Wood lamp examination for fluorescence patterns - Patch testing for suspected contact dermatitis - Lab: CBC, CMP, ESR/CRP, autoimmune panels as indicated - Cultures (bacterial, fungal, viral) for infectious dermatoses - PASI, BSA, or DLQI severity scoring tools
Risk factors: - UV exposure and cumulative sun damage - Fair skin (Fitzpatrick I-II) - Immunosuppression (transplant, HIV, medications) - Personal/family history of skin cancer or dysplastic nevi - Medication-related dermatological effects (drug eruptions) - Chronic inflammatory skin conditions predisposing to malignancy - Occupational chemical or irritant skin exposures