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Common skin conditions
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For each of the ten cases, study the image and then answer the questions. You can click on the image to view a larger version if required.
Each case should take approximately five minutes to complete. There is a list of suggested further reading material at the end of the quiz.
When you finish the quiz, you can download a certificate.
What is the diagnosis?
Alopecia areata.
What else should you look for?
Alopecia in other sites (particularly scalp), other autoimmune disorders e.g. thyroid disease.
What further tests are necessary (if any)?
Usually none. If scaling or pustules are present, fungal scrapings and bacterial culture are necessary in case of infection. If there is sign of another autoimmune disorder, the relevant tests are appropriate.
What is the treatment?
No treatment is usually necessary. Intralesional steroid injections should be undertaken with caution because of the risk of atrophy. The prognosis is generally excellent; full remission is achieved spontaneously in 80%.