40.4 Other Dermatologic Condition Drugs and Topical Anti-infectives for Burns
3 min read•june 18, 2024
Skin conditions and can be tricky to treat, but there are many options available. From to antibiotics, these medications target specific issues like inflammation, infection, and pain. They work in different ways, but all aim to promote healing and relief.
When using these treatments, it's crucial to follow instructions carefully. Nurses play a key role in assessing wounds, applying medications correctly, and monitoring for side effects. Patient education is also vital, ensuring people understand how to use their meds safely and effectively at home.
Dermatologic Condition Drugs and Topical Anti-infectives for Burns
Key features of medications for skin conditions and burn treatments
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- Topical corticosteroids reduce inflammation, itching, and redness available in various potencies (, , clobetasol)
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors treat and other inflammatory skin conditions by suppressing immune response in the skin (, )
- Topical retinoids treat acne and photodamaged skin by regulating cell growth and differentiation (tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene)
- Topical antibiotics for burns prevent and treat bacterial infections in burn wounds (, , bacitracin)
- Topical anesthetics for burns provide pain relief in burn wounds (lidocaine, benzocaine)
How dermatologic disorder and burn drugs work, effects, and risks
- Topical corticosteroids bind to glucocorticoid receptors, suppressing inflammatory response reduces inflammation, itching, and redness; improves skin healing risks include , striae, telangiectasia, suppression (with prolonged use or high potency)
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors inhibit calcineurin, suppressing T-cell activation and cytokine production reduces inflammation and itching in atopic dermatitis and other inflammatory skin conditions risks include burning sensation, itching, increased risk of skin infections, potential increased risk of lymphoma (long-term safety not established)
- Topical retinoids bind to retinoic acid receptors, regulating cell growth and differentiation unclogs pores, reduces acne lesions, improves skin texture and tone risks include skin irritation, dryness, peeling,
- Topical antibiotics for burns inhibit bacterial growth and prevent infection in burn wounds reduces risk of infection, promotes wound healing risks include allergic reactions, skin irritation, potential for antibiotic resistance
- Topical anesthetics for burns block sodium channels, preventing nerve impulse transmission provides local pain relief in burn wounds risks include allergic reactions, skin irritation, systemic absorption (if applied to large areas or mucous membranes)
Essential nursing considerations when administering skin and burn treatments
- Assess skin condition or burn wound before treatment
- Follow proper application techniques for each medication
- Apply thin layer of topical corticosteroids, avoiding occlusion unless prescribed
- Apply topical calcineurin inhibitors to affected areas, avoiding contact with eyes and mucous membranes
- Apply topical retinoids in the evening, using a pea-sized amount for the entire face
- Apply topical antibiotics to burn wounds as directed, using sterile technique
- Apply topical anesthetics to burn wounds as needed for pain relief
- Monitor for adverse effects and report to healthcare provider
- Educate patients on proper use, storage, and disposal of medications
- Encourage adherence to treatment regimen and follow-up appointments
Patient education plan for safe and effective use of dermatologic and burn medications
- Explain purpose and expected effects of medication
- Demonstrate proper application techniques and emphasize importance of following directions
- Discuss potential side effects and when to seek medical attention
- Advise on sun protection measures when using topical corticosteroids or retinoids
- Emphasize importance of not sharing medications with others
- Provide written instructions and resources for additional information
- Encourage patients to keep a log of symptoms and response to treatment
- Schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed
Key Terms to Review (80)
Acyclovir: Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat and prevent infections caused by certain types of viruses, particularly the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It is a key drug in the management of viral infections, with applications across various medical contexts including bacterial, viral/COVID-19, and fungal infections, as well as sexually transmitted infections and dermatologic conditions.
Alginates: Alginates are natural, water-soluble polysaccharides derived from brown seaweed. They are commonly used in various medical and pharmaceutical applications, particularly in the context of dermatological conditions and burn treatment.
Altabax: Altabax is a topical antibiotic used to treat impetigo, a bacterial skin infection. Its active ingredient is retapamulin, which inhibits bacterial protein synthesis.
Antimicrobial: Antimicrobials are substances that kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. They play a crucial role in the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases across various medical contexts, including the topics of bacterial, viral/COVID-19, and fungal infections, as well as in the management of dermatologic conditions and burns.
Antimicrobials: Antimicrobials are agents that kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. They are crucial in treating infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Atopic dermatitis: Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by itchy, red, swollen, and cracked skin. It often starts in childhood and can persist into adulthood.
Bactroban: Bactroban is a topical antibiotic ointment containing mupirocin, used to treat bacterial skin infections such as impetigo. It works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, effectively stopping bacterial growth.
Benzoyl Peroxide: Benzoyl peroxide is a topical medication primarily used in the treatment of acne. It works by killing acne-causing bacteria, reducing inflammation, and promoting the drying and peeling of the skin to unclog pores. Benzoyl peroxide is a versatile compound that is also used in the management of other dermatological conditions and as a topical antiseptic for burns.
Biosynthetic Skin Substitutes: Biosynthetic skin substitutes are advanced wound dressings that are designed to mimic the structure and function of natural human skin. They are used to treat various dermatological conditions and promote healing in burn injuries by providing a protective barrier and facilitating the regeneration of skin tissue.
Burn Classification: Burn classification is a system used to categorize the severity and depth of burn injuries. This classification system is crucial in determining the appropriate treatment and management of burns, which is an important aspect of both 40.4 Other Dermatologic Condition Drugs and Topical Anti-infectives for Burns.
Burn Pathophysiology: Burn pathophysiology refers to the complex physiological changes that occur in the body as a result of a burn injury. It encompasses the cascade of events and mechanisms that lead to the various manifestations and complications associated with different degrees of burns.
Burns: Burns are injuries to the skin or other tissues caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, radiation, or friction. They can range in severity from superficial (first-degree) to deep (third-degree) and require different treatment strategies.
Calamine lotion: Calamine lotion is a topical medication used to relieve itching and discomfort from minor skin irritations. It contains zinc oxide and ferric oxide, which provide soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Calananz: Calananz is a topical medication used to treat certain dermatologic conditions, particularly burns and other skin infections. It combines antimicrobial properties with soothing agents to promote healing and prevent infection.
Candida: Candida is a genus of yeast-like fungi that can cause various types of infections, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems or imbalanced gut microbiomes. It is an opportunistic pathogen that can lead to skin, mucous membrane, and systemic infections.
Cantharidin: Cantharidin is a vesicant substance derived from blister beetles, commonly used for the treatment of warts and molluscum contagiosum. It induces blistering upon topical application, facilitating the removal of abnormal skin growths.
Carbonic Anhydrase: Carbonic anhydrase is an enzyme that catalyzes the reversible conversion of carbon dioxide and water into carbonic acid, bicarbonate, and protons. This enzyme plays a crucial role in maintaining pH balance and regulating various physiological processes, particularly in the context of dermatologic conditions and topical treatments for burns.
Cetamide: Cetamide is a topical anti-infective agent used to treat dermatologic conditions, including burns. It possesses antimicrobial properties that help prevent and manage infections in damaged skin.
Chemical Burns: Chemical burns are a type of tissue damage caused by exposure to corrosive or irritant chemicals. They can occur on the skin, eyes, or internal organs following ingestion or inhalation of these substances.
Comedolytic: Comedolytic refers to a class of drugs or ingredients that help prevent and treat acne by reducing the formation of comedones, which are clogged hair follicles and pores that can lead to blackheads and whiteheads. These agents work by breaking down the plugs within the pores, allowing for improved skin clearance and reduced acne lesions.
Contact dermatitis: Contact dermatitis is a skin condition resulting from exposure to an irritant or allergen, causing inflammation. Symptoms include redness, itching, and sometimes blistering or peeling of the skin.
Cortef: Cortef is a brand name for hydrocortisone, a corticosteroid used to treat inflammation and various dermatologic conditions. It reduces swelling, itching, and redness by suppressing the immune response.
Cream: Cream is a thick, rich, and emollient topical preparation that is typically used for the treatment of various dermatological conditions and to provide relief for burns. It is a versatile formulation that can be used to deliver active pharmaceutical ingredients to the skin.
Cutaneous warts: Cutaneous warts are benign skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They commonly appear on hands, feet, and other areas of the body.
Debridement: Debridement is the removal of dead, damaged, or infected tissue from a wound to promote healing. It is a crucial step in the management of various dermatological conditions and burn injuries, as it helps to create a clean, healthy wound bed that is conducive to the healing process.
Donepezil transdermal: Donepezil transdermal is a medication used to manage symptoms of Alzheimer's disease by delivering the drug through a skin patch. It inhibits acetylcholinesterase, thereby increasing acetylcholine levels in the brain.
Eczema: Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by itchy, red, and swollen patches of skin. It often involves periods of flare-ups and remissions.
Eczema: Eczema is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition characterized by red, itchy, and often scaly rashes. It is a common dermatological condition that can significantly impact a person's quality of life and is often managed through the use of topical medications and other treatment approaches.
Elidel: Elidel is a topical immunomodulator used to treat mild to moderate atopic dermatitis (eczema). It works by inhibiting calcineurin, thereby suppressing the immune response that causes inflammation in the skin.
Ergosterol: Ergosterol is a sterol compound that is a major component of the cell membrane in fungi. It is structurally similar to cholesterol, which is the predominant sterol in animal cell membranes, and serves a similar function in maintaining membrane integrity and fluidity in fungal cells.
First-Degree Burns: First-degree burns are the mildest type of burn injury, affecting only the outermost layer of the skin. They are characterized by redness, pain, and minor swelling, but do not result in blistering or deeper skin damage.
Flagyl: Flagyl, also known as metronidazole, is an antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication used to treat various infections including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and parasitic infections. It is commonly administered orally or intravenously.
Gentamicin: Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It is particularly effective against gram-negative bacteria and is commonly used in the treatment of serious infections such as sepsis, pneumonia, and meningitis. Gentamicin also has applications in the context of antiviral/anti-COVID-19 drugs, cholinergic drugs, loop diuretics, and topical anti-infectives for dermatological conditions and burns.
Granulation Tissue: Granulation tissue is the new connective tissue and tiny blood vessels that form on the surface of a wound during the healing process. It is a key component of the body's natural wound healing response, helping to close and repair damaged skin and other tissues.
HPA Axis: The HPA axis, or hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, is a complex system of interactions between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands that regulates the body's response to stress and maintains homeostasis. It plays a crucial role in the coordination of physiological and behavioral responses to both external and internal stimuli.
Hydrocolloid Dressings: Hydrocolloid dressings are a type of wound dressing that contain gel-forming agents, such as gelatin, pectin, or carboxymethylcellulose, which absorb wound exudate and create a moist healing environment. They are commonly used in the management of various dermatological conditions and burn wounds.
Hydrocortisone: Hydrocortisone is a glucocorticoid hormone used to treat inflammation and suppress the immune response. It is often administered for conditions like eczema, allergies, and adrenal insufficiency.
Impetigo: Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection primarily caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. It commonly affects children and presents as red sores that rupture, ooze, and form a yellow-brown crust.
Infection Control: Infection control refers to the comprehensive set of practices and procedures implemented to prevent the transmission of infectious agents or pathogens within healthcare settings. It is a critical component in the management of dermatologic conditions and the treatment of burns, ensuring the safety of patients and healthcare workers alike.
Intradermal: Intradermal refers to the administration of a substance, such as a medication or vaccine, directly into the layers of the skin. This route of administration allows for targeted delivery and is commonly used for certain types of injections and skin tests.
Isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase: Isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase is an enzyme that catalyzes the attachment of the amino acid isoleucine to its corresponding transfer RNA (tRNA) molecule during protein synthesis. This process is crucial for ensuring the accurate translation of genetic information into functional proteins, particularly in the context of dermatologic conditions and topical anti-infectives for burns.
Keratolytic: Keratolytic refers to a class of compounds that act on the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin, to promote the shedding or peeling of dead skin cells. These agents are commonly used in the management of various dermatological conditions, including acne, warts, and other skin disorders.
Lotion: A lotion is a topical preparation that is typically less viscous than a cream and is designed to be applied to the skin. Lotions are commonly used in the context of 40.4 Other Dermatologic Condition Drugs and Topical Anti-infectives for Burns to provide hydration, deliver active ingredients, and address various skin concerns.
Mafenide acetate: Mafenide acetate is a topical sulfonamide antibiotic used primarily to treat second and third-degree burns. It helps prevent bacterial infections in burn wounds.
Mafenide Acetate: Mafenide acetate is a topical antimicrobial agent primarily used in the treatment of burns and other severe skin conditions. It is classified as a sulfonamide derivative and is known for its broad-spectrum activity against various bacteria, fungi, and some viruses.
Medrol: Medrol is a brand name for methylprednisolone, a glucocorticoid used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. It is commonly prescribed for conditions involving severe allergies, skin disorders, and endocrine disturbances.
Methylprednisolone: Methylprednisolone is a synthetic corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response. It is commonly administered for conditions like asthma, allergic reactions, and certain dermatologic disorders.
MRSA: MRSA, or Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus, is a type of bacteria that has developed resistance to many common antibiotics, making it difficult to treat. MRSA infections can range from mild skin infections to more serious, life-threatening conditions, and are of particular concern in healthcare settings.
Mupirocin: Mupirocin is a topical antibiotic used to treat skin infections such as impetigo. It works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, effectively stopping the growth of certain bacteria.
Ointment: An ointment is a semisolid preparation, typically containing a medicinal substance, that is applied topically to the skin or mucous membranes for therapeutic or protective purposes. Ointments are commonly used in the context of dermatologic conditions and topical anti-infective treatments, such as for burns.
Pediatric clients: Pediatric clients are children and adolescents who require medical care, including pharmacological treatments. Special considerations must be made for their unique physiological and developmental needs.
Pediatric dosage: Pediatric dosage is the specific amount of medication prescribed to children, taking into account their age, weight, and developmental stage. It ensures both efficacy and safety in treating various pediatric conditions.
Pharmacokinetics of Topical Medications: Pharmacokinetics is the study of how the body affects a drug, including the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of the drug. For topical medications, pharmacokinetics describes the unique processes that occur when drugs are applied to the skin or other external surfaces of the body.
Photosensitivity: Photosensitivity is a condition in which the skin becomes abnormally sensitive to sunlight or other sources of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, leading to an adverse reaction or increased susceptibility to skin damage. This term is particularly relevant in the context of certain medications and medical conditions that can cause or exacerbate photosensitivity.
Pimecrolimus: Pimecrolimus is a topical immunomodulator used to treat mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. It reduces inflammation by inhibiting T-cell activation and the release of inflammatory cytokines.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram-negative, aerobic, rod-shaped bacterium that is a common opportunistic pathogen, known for its ability to cause a variety of infections in humans, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying medical conditions. This bacterium is a significant concern in the context of dermatologic conditions and topical anti-infective treatments for burns.
Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition characterized by the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to the formation of thick, scaly, and often itchy or painful patches on the skin. This autoimmune disorder is closely linked to the topics of immunosuppressants, biologics, monoclonal antibodies, biosimilar drugs, and other dermatologic condition drugs and topical anti-infectives for burns.
Re-epithelialization: Re-epithelialization is the process of regenerating the epithelial layer of the skin following an injury or wound. It is a crucial step in the healing process that helps restore the skin's protective barrier function.
Retapamulin: Retapamulin is a topical antibiotic used primarily to treat impetigo, a common bacterial skin infection. It inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by interacting with the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome.
Rosacea: Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by facial redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like bumps. It often affects the central part of the face including the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin.
Salicylic Acid: Salicylic acid is a chemical compound that has been widely used in various medical and cosmetic applications, particularly in the context of acne treatment, management of other dermatological conditions, and as a topical agent for burns. This versatile compound has demonstrated its effectiveness in addressing a range of skin-related issues, making it a crucial component in various pharmaceutical and over-the-counter products.
Silvadene: Silvadene is a topical antimicrobial cream used to prevent and treat infections in second- and third-degree burns. It contains silver sulfadiazine, which acts against a wide range of bacteria.
Silver sulfadiazine: Silver sulfadiazine is a topical antimicrobial agent used primarily on burns to prevent and treat infections. It works by inhibiting bacterial growth at the site of application.
Silver Sulfadiazine: Silver sulfadiazine is a topical antimicrobial agent commonly used to treat and prevent infections in burn wounds. It is a silver salt of the sulfonamide antibiotic sulfadiazine, which works by disrupting bacterial cell membranes and inhibiting DNA synthesis.
Skin Atrophy: Skin atrophy refers to the thinning and weakening of the skin layers, resulting in a delicate, fragile, and translucent appearance. This condition can be a side effect of prolonged use of topical corticosteroids or a consequence of various dermatological conditions.
Sodium sulfacetamide: Sodium sulfacetamide is a topical antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections of the skin, such as acne and seborrheic dermatitis. It works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria on the skin.
Sulfamylon: Sulfamylon is a topical antimicrobial agent used primarily in the treatment of second and third-degree burns. It helps prevent bacterial infections by inhibiting the growth of bacteria on the skin.
Sumaxin: Sumaxin is a topical medication used to treat various dermatologic conditions, including infections and burns. It has both antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Tacrolimus: Tacrolimus is an immunosuppressant drug primarily used to prevent organ rejection in transplant patients. It works by inhibiting the activation and proliferation of T-cells, thereby reducing the body's immune response and lowering the risk of graft rejection. Tacrolimus is also utilized in the treatment of certain dermatological conditions, such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Topical anti-infectives: Topical anti-infectives are medications applied directly to the skin to prevent or treat infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. They are commonly used in treating dermatologic conditions and burns.
Topical antibiotic: A topical antibiotic is a medication applied directly to the skin to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria, commonly used for treating minor cuts, burns, and skin infections. It helps prevent infection and promote healing in affected areas.
Topical Antimicrobial Agents: Topical antimicrobial agents are medications applied directly to the skin or other external body surfaces to treat or prevent infections caused by microorganisms. These agents play a crucial role in managing various dermatological conditions and addressing topical infections, particularly in the context of burn treatment.
Topical Corticosteroids: Topical corticosteroids are a class of anti-inflammatory medications that are applied directly to the skin to treat various dermatological conditions. They work by reducing inflammation, itching, and redness in the affected areas.
Topical steroids: Topical steroids are anti-inflammatory medications applied directly to the skin to reduce inflammation and irritation in various dermatologic conditions. They are commonly used to treat conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
Transdermal: Transdermal refers to the administration of medication through the skin, allowing the active ingredients to be absorbed into the bloodstream. This method of drug delivery bypasses the gastrointestinal tract and liver, providing a direct route for the drug to reach the systemic circulation.
Triamcinolone: Triamcinolone is a synthetic corticosteroid medication used to treat a variety of inflammatory skin conditions, including psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis. It is also utilized in the management of other dermatological conditions and as a topical treatment for burns.
Vesicant: A vesicant is a chemical agent that causes severe blistering and tissue damage upon contact. In pharmacology, vesicants are often associated with certain chemotherapeutic drugs and can cause serious skin injuries if they extravasate during intravenous administration.
Wound Dressings: Wound dressings are materials applied to a wound to promote healing, protect the wound from further injury, and prevent infection. They play a crucial role in the management of various dermatological conditions and in the treatment of burns.
Wound Healing Stages: Wound healing is a complex, dynamic process that involves a series of overlapping stages to repair damaged tissue. This term is particularly relevant in the context of 40.4 Other Dermatologic Condition Drugs and Topical Anti-infectives for Burns, as these medications can influence and support the various stages of wound healing.
Yanth: Yanth is a hypothetical topical anti-infective agent specifically formulated for the treatment of burns. It possesses antimicrobial properties that help prevent infections in burned skin areas.