Dermatology Library
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G
Gelatin matrix implant:
Gelatin matrix implant, a porcine derivative collagen powder, is a lyophilized gelatin powder and e-aminocaproic acid. It is reconstituted with the patient’s serum and normal saline solution and stimulates the proliferation of the patient’s own collagen through wound healing. This process elevates soft tissue in the treatment of soft-tissue defects resulting from trauma, disease, or aging.
Genital warts:
Genital warts are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). Genital warts are also known as venereal warts or condyloma acuminate. There are approximately 20 million people in the United States currently infected with HPV and at least 50 percent of sexually active individuals will contract genital HPV in their lifetime.
There are more than 100 types of HPV. There are about 30 types that can cause genital warts. Low risk types such as HPV 1,2, and 3 generally cause warts on the hands, feet, and other parts of the body. Types 6 and 11 cause warts on the genitals and anus, while types 16 and 18, although rare, can cause cancer on the cervix, anus, or external genitalia. Genital warts are spread by sexual contact.
Many people infected with HPV do not know they are infected and do not experience any symptoms. The virus lives in the skin or mucous membranes and many people are “carriers” with no actual lesions. Genital warts are usually soft, pink or flesh-colored with a rough or smooth surface with a cauliflower appearance. They can appear as a single growth or in a group. They generally appear on the vulva, in or around the vagina or anus, on the cervix, penis, scrotum, thighs, or groin.
Genital warts are usually diagnosed by clinical examination, but a biopsy can also be performed and sent to the lab for examination. There are several treatment options available for genital warts. Visible warts may be treated with a topical medication, surgically removed, or frozen off with liquid nitrogen. Treatments are often difficult and require multiple visits to the office. The warts may reoccur, especially within the first three months of treatment. Individuals may still be contagious even after visible warts are gone, because the virus can live in the deep layers of the skin.
Regular Pap tests are recommended for women to screen for pre-cancerous and cancerous cells caused by HPV. HPV can cause abnormalities of Pap test and can lead to cervical cancer. Although ninety percent of women will clear cervical HPV infection within two years, frequent screening is recommended to help prevent development of invasive cervical cancer. There are new vaccines available for female patients to help protect against certain types of HPV that may cause cervical cancer. These are available through your primary care physician or your OB/GYN.
Submitted by: Nitra H. Cole, MSN, ARNP, NP-C
Gingivitis:
See: Mouth Care
Gluten intolerance:
Also referred to as Celiac disease (CD). gluten sensitive enteropathy (GSE), or celiac sprue. It is considered to be the most under-diagnosed common disease today, potentially affecting 1 in every 133 people in the USA. It is a chronic, inherited disease, and if untreated can ultimately lead to malnutrition. Gluten intolerance is the result of an immune- mediated response to the ingestion of gluten (from wheat, rye, and barley) that damages the small intestine. Nutrients then quickly passed through the small intestine, rather than being absorbed. To develop celiac disease (CD) three things must be present: 1) you must inherit the gene, 2) consume gluten, and 3) have the gene triggered. Common triggers may include stress, trauma (surgeries, pregnancy, etc.), and viral infections. Approximately 1 in 20 first- degree relatives could have CD triggered in their lifetime. The disease is permanent and damage to the small intestine will occur every time you consume gluten, regardless if symptoms are present.
Glycolic acid peels:
Part of the chemical family referred to as alpha- hydroxy acids. Glycolic acid is a naturally occurring compound in sugar cane. When applied, it helps to dissolve the outer layer of skin.
Also see: Rosacea
Granuloma annulare:
Granuloma annulare is a slow progressing, self-limited, granulomatous like skin disease. It appears as raised, firm, smooth, shiny, annular or round papules and plaques. It usually starts as a bump or papule and spreads into a ring like lesion. The center is usually clear, the area does not peel or itch and is painless. The lesions are commonly seen on the tops of the hands and feet, on the elbows, knees, and arms. Granuloma annulare is most common in children and young adults.
There is no known cause for granuloma annulare. Some researchers believe it is an immune system reaction and may be linked to diabetes, but there is no evidence to confirm this. Granuloma annulare may be confused with ringworm, Lyme disease, or nummular eczema. A biopsy can be done to confirm diagnosis.
Granuloma annulare has no symptoms and does not have to be treated. The lesions will usually resolve on their own within a few months to years leaving no scars. Due to cosmetic concerns, some lesions are treated to help them disappear faster. A steroid cream can be applied to the lesion or steroids can be injected directly into the lesion. Ultraviolet light therapy, called PUVA, is sometimes effective in helping lesions clear faster.
Submitted by: Nitra H. Cole, MSN, ARNP, NP-C