Rx Note

Introduction Cutaneous warts are small, rough growths that are caused by infection of skin cells with certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). More than 100 HPV subtypes are known, giving rise to a variety of presentations. They can appear anywhere on the skin, but are most commonly seen on the hands and feet. A verruca (also known as a plantar wart) is a wart on the sole of the foot. Transmission HPV is spread by direct skin-to-skin contact or auto-inoculation . This means that if a wart is scratched or picked, the viral particles may be spread to another area of skin. The incubation period can be as long as 12 months. Strategies to reduce risk of transmission include Cover warts when they are being treated. Avoid sharing towels, shoes or socks. Consider HPV vaccination. Clinical features When examined, the wart appears as a raised hyperkeratotic papule with thrombosed black vessels often visible as black dots within the wart . They tend to be rough textured and usually les...

Introduction A proper skincare routine typically includes cleanser, toner (optional), serum, moisturizer and sunscreen  (morning only). Cleanser: Removes dirt, excess oil, sweat and impurities from the skin, creating a clean surface for optimal absorption of subsequent products. Toner (optional): Helps balance the skin’s pH, provides light hydration and prepares the skin for better absorption of serums and moisturizers. Traditionally, toners were used to remove residual cleansers and provide a temporary tightening effect, though modern formulations are often more hydrating and soothing. Serum: A lightweight, concentrated formula designed to deliver active ingredients (e.g. vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and retinol) deep into the skin to target specific concerns like dullness, dehydration, fine lines or uneven tone. Moisturizer: Locks in hydration, strengthens the skin barrier and seals in the benefits of previous steps, especially serums. Sunscreen (morning only): Provides ...

Introduction Psoriasis is a chronic, relapsing, inflammatory disorder characterized by a variety of morphological lesions that present in a number of forms. The most common form of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis, accounting for about 80% to 90% of cases. Plaque psoriasis typically presents with characteristic salmon-pink lesions with silvery-white scales and well-defined boundaries. Scalp psoriasis can be mild, exhibiting slight redness of the scalp, to severe, with total head involvement, marked inflammation and thick scaling. Occasionally, psoriasis is provoked or exacerbated by drugs such as lithium, chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, beta-blockers, NSAIDs and ACE inhibitors. Psoriasis may not be seen until the drug has been taken for weeks or months. Management Patients should be counselled to stop smoking and limit alcohol . For most patients, the initial decision point around therapy will be between local (topical) and full body (phototherapy or systemic) therapy. However, ...