Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, and Treatment
Zoster (Herpes Zoster, Shingles)
Definition, Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Clinical Features, Complications, Differential Diagnosis, Treatment
Definition
Segmental (dermatomal) painful skin disease caused by reactivation of Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV).
Epidemiology
Approximately 10–20% of seropositive adults develop clinically apparent zoster. The peak incidence is between 50–70 years of age. In younger patients, consider HIV and iatrogenic immunosuppression.
Pathogenesis
Following the initial varicella
Brain Anatomy and Function
Understanding the Human Brain and Nervous System
The brain is the control center for the entire nervous system. It can be divided into three main sections: the cerebrum, the cerebellum, and the brain stem.
The Cerebrum
The cerebrum is divided into two halves, called hemispheres, which are connected by bundles of nerves. The cerebrum controls all conscious activities, intelligence, memory, language, skeletal muscle movements, and senses.
The outer surface of the cerebrum, called the cerebral cortex,
Read MoreVertebrate Nervous System: Structure, Function, and Integration
Vertebrate Nervous System: Structure and Function
The vertebrate nervous system (VNS) is a highly evolved system responsible for coordinating and controlling bodily functions. Key features include a dorsal location, an enlarged anterior region (encephalon), and an elongated posterior region (spinal cord).
Central Nervous System (CNS)
The CNS is divided into two main parts:
- Encephalon (brain)
- Spinal Cord
Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
The PNS is further divided into:
- Somatic Nervous System (spinal and cranial
Common Skin Lesions and Disorders: Identification and Care
Primary Skin Lesions
These are lesions that are formed on the skin.
Types
Free Content
- Macule: A circumscribed, flat lesion without elevation, differing in coloration from the surrounding skin. Appears in measles, rubella, or freckles.
Solid Content
- Papule: A small, circumscribed, elevated lesion less than 1 cm in diameter. Some warts and some acne lesions are papules.
- Plaque: If a papule is over 1 cm, it is called a plaque.
- Nodule: A circumscribed, elevated lesion located in the hypodermis or at the dermoepidermal
Integumentary System: Structure, Function, and Disorders
Chapter 46: Integumentary System: Structure, Function, and Disorders
Immune Responses and Skin Cells
- Which component of the epidermis initiates immune responses and provides a defense against environmental antigens?
Langerhans cells - Which cells of the dermis release histamine and play a role in hypersensitivity reactions of the skin?
Mast cells - Which cells of the dermis secrete connective tissue matrix?
Fibroblasts
Thermoregulation and Skin Glands
- Which gland releases secretions that are important in thermoregulation
Human Anatomy and Physiology: Skeletal Cartilage and Nervous System
Skeletal Cartilage
Skeletal Cartilage:
- Hyaline: Provides support, flexibility, and resilience (e.g., ribs, elbow, shoulder).
- Elastic: Contains more elastic fibers (e.g., external ear, epiglottis).
- Fibrocartilage: Rich in collagen, provides tensile strength (e.g., intervertebral discs).
Nervous System
- Central Nervous System (CNS): The command center, consisting of the brain and spinal cord.
- Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Carries messages to and from the CNS, including cranial and spinal nerves.