Dia 

 Through, complete Example: Diaphoresis – Excessive sweating, which may be a symptom of fever, physical exertion, or underlying conditions like hyperthyroidism or a heart attack.

Epi

Upon, on, over Example: Epidermis – The outermost layer of the skin, which acts as a protective barrier against environmental damage, pathogens, and water loss.

Uni

One Example: Unilateral – Pertaining to one side, as in a unilateral skin lesion or rash that affects only one side of the body, often seen in conditions like shingles.

Meta

Change, beyond, after Example: Metaplasia – Transformation of tissue from one type to another, such as the conversion of normal skin cells to a tougher type after chronic irritation or injury.

Pro

 Before Example: Prodromal – Referring to the early symptoms that occur before a disease becomes fully evident, such as tingling before a herpes outbreak or fever before a rash in measles.

Coccus

Berry-shaped Example: Staphylococcus – A type of berry-shaped bacterium that can cause skin infections such as boils, abscesses, or cellulitis.

Genic

Producing, originating, causing Example: Carcinogenic – Producing cancer, often describing substances like UV rays or tobacco that can lead to skin or other cancers.

Malacia

Softening Example: Onychomalacia – Softening of the nails, which can occur due to fungal infections or malnutrition.

Ad

Toward Example: Cephalad – Toward the head, commonly used to describe directional movement or anatomical orientation.

Ia

Condition of, diseased state, abnormal state Example: Alopecia – A condition of hair loss that autoimmune diseases, genetic factors, or treatments like chemotherapy can cause.

Adip/o

Fat Example: Adipocyte – A fat cell that stores energy in the form of lipids, found primarily in subcutaneous tissue and around internal organs.

Albin/o

 White Example: Albinism – A genetic condition characterized by the absence of melanin pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes, leading to increased sensitivity to sunlight and vision issues.

Hidr/o

Sweat Example: Hidrosis – The production and excretion of sweat, which can be excessive (hyperhidrosis) or reduced (anhidrosis), depending on the condition.

Pil/o or Trich/o

Hair Example: Trichotillomania – A psychological condition characterized by an irresistible urge to pull out one’s own hair, often resulting in noticeable hair loss.

Myc/o

Fungus Example: Mycosis – A fungal infection, such as athlete’s foot or ringworm, which can affect the skin, nails, or other body parts.

BCC

BCC = Basal Cell Carcinoma

• The most common type of skin cancer that arises from basal cells in the epidermis. BCC grows slowly and rarely spreads (metastasizes) to other parts of the body. It often appears as a pearly or waxy bump, a flat lesion, or a sore that does not heal, typically on sun-exposed areas of the skin.

CD

CD = Contact Dermatitis

• An inflammatory skin condition caused by direct contact with an irritant or allergen. Symptoms include redness, itching, swelling, and sometimes blisters. There are two types:

• Irritant Contact Dermatitis: Caused by substances like soaps or chemicals.

• Allergic Contact Dermatitis: Caused by allergens like poison ivy or nickel.

MM

MM = Malignant Melanoma

• A serious type of skin cancer that develops in the melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment (melanin). It can appear as a new mole or change in an existing mole. MM is aggressive and can metastasize quickly if not treated early. The "ABCDE" rule helps in recognizing melanoma: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter greater than 6mm, and Evolving size, shape, or color.

MRSA

MRSA = Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus

• A drug-resistant bacterial infection commonly associated with healthcare settings but also found in the community. It often causes skin and soft tissue infections, which may appear as red, swollen, painful bumps or abscesses. Severe cases can lead to bloodstream infections, pneumonia, or surgical site infections. Prompt treatment with appropriate antibiotics and infection control measures is crucial to prevent complications.

SCD

SCD = Scleroderma

• A chronic autoimmune disease characterized by hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues. SCD can be localized (affecting only the skin) or systemic (affecting internal organs like the lungs, heart, and kidneys). Symptoms may include skin thickening, Raynaud's phenomenon, and joint pain.