Atlas of Diseases

  "FTU" in the context of steroids typically refers to a "Finger Tip Unit," which is a measurement used in dermatology to prescribe the amount of topical steroid to apply to the skin. One FTU is the amount of cream or ointment squeezed from a tube to cover the tip of an adult’s finger, and it roughly equals about 0.5 grams. The FTU system helps determine proper dosages for patients using topical corticosteroids to avoid overuse or underuse.

  Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a severe, rapidly progressing soft tissue infection that affects the fascial plane, which is the connective tissue that surrounds muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. It is often caused by a combination of bacterial infections, including both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. The infection can destroy tissue and spread rapidly, leading to widespread tissue death (necrosis), and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Symptoms of Necrotizing Fasciitis: Severe pain:  Often out of proportion to the appearance of the skin. Swelling and redness:  The skin may become discolored, with areas of redness or purple coloring. Fever and chills:  The body’s response to infection. Blisters or ulcers:  The skin may develop blisters or open sores. Foul-smelling discharge:  This can be seen in severe cases where the tissue has started to break down. Shock:  In extreme cases, it can lead to septic shock, with symptoms like low blood ...

  An amoebic liver abscess (ALA) is a type of infection in the liver caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica . This parasite is the same one that causes amoebic dysentery, but when it affects the liver, it leads to the formation of an abscess (a pocket of pus) in the liver tissue. Key Points: Cause : The infection is primarily contracted through ingestion of food or water contaminated with cysts of  Entamoeba histolytica . Symptoms : Fever Abdominal pain (especially in the right upper quadrant) Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) Weight loss Fatigue Sometimes, nausea or vomiting Diagnosis : It is diagnosed through: Blood tests (elevated liver enzymes) Imaging (ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to detect abscesses) Stool tests to check for  Entamoeba histolytica  cysts Treatment : Antibiotics : The main treatment is anti-parasitic medication such as  metronidazole  or  tinidazole . In severe cases, drainage of the abscess may be necessary. Complic...

  Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. It originates in the basal cells, which are located in the lowest layer of the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin). BCC typically develops in areas of skin that are exposed to the sun, like the face, ears, neck, scalp, shoulders, and back, but it can appear anywhere on the body. Key Characteristics: Appearance : BCC often appears as a pearly or waxy bump, although it can also look like a flat, scaly patch. It may be red or pale in color and can sometimes have visible blood vessels. Growth : It usually grows slowly over time and rarely spreads to other parts of the body (metastasis). However, untreated BCC can grow deeper into surrounding tissues and cause damage. Risk Factors: Sun Exposure : Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun is a major risk factor. Fair Skin : People with fair skin, light hair, and light eyes are more prone. Age : It is more common in older adults, especially those with a histor...