Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile Dysfunction Milton Lakin Since the 1990s, there has been increasing recognition that erectile dysfunction is a common problem. Although many patients come to their general practitioner’s or internist’s office…
Microvascular Complications of Diabetes
Microvascular Complications of Diabetes Robert Zimmerman DEFINITION The microvascular complications of diabetes encompass long-term complications of diabetes affecting small blood vessels. These classically have included retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy. Retinopathy…
Pigmentary Disorders
Pigmentary Disorders Apra Sood, Kenneth J. Tomecki Normal skin color depends on melanin, hemoglobin (oxidized and reduced), and carotenoids. Melanin is the major color determinant and is responsible for variations…
Contact Dermatitis and Related Conditions
Contact Dermatitis and Related Conditions James S. Taylor, Antoine Amado DEFINITION Contact dermatitis is an acute or chronic immunologic (allergic) or nonimmunologic (irritant) inflammation of the skin usually caused by…
Occupational Asthma
Occupational Asthma Mark Aronica DEFINITION The definition of occupational asthma, much like the definition of asthma itself, has changed over the years; therefore, it is difficult to determine the prevalence…
Food Allergy
Food Allergy R. Koelsch DEFINITION An allergic reaction is but one kind of adverse reaction to food. Other reactions include intolerance to compounds such as lactose, reactions to toxins in…
Latex Allergy
Latex Allergy Lily C. Pien The dramatic surge in the incidence of latex allergy in the 1980s is believed to be related to increased use of latex gloves after the…
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis Fred Hsieh DEFINITION AND ETIOLOGY Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that has a rapid onset and can cause death. Anaphylactic reactions are triggered by immunoglobulin (Ig) E–dependent activation…
Urticaria and Angioedema
Urticaria and Angioedema Sandra Hong, Sheila Armogida DEFINITION Urticaria, also known as hives, is defined as raised, erythematous skin lesions that are pruritic and evanescent. They typically last less than…
