Atrophoderma neuriticum is a medical term used to describe a skin condition affecting the cutaneous nerves and skin. The word is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as "ˌæt.rə.fəʊˈdɜː.mə njuːˈrɪ.tɪ.kəm." The first syllable "a" is pronounced as "æ" while the second syllable "tro" is pronounced as "trəʊ". The third syllable "pho" is pronounced as "fəʊ", and the fourth syllable "der" is pronounced as "dɜː". The fifth and sixth syllables "ma" and "neu" are pronounced as "mə" and "njuː". The last syllable "riticum" is pronounced as "rɪ.tɪ.kəm."
Atrophoderma neuriticum, also known as Nevus unius lateris, is a medical condition characterized by localized skin atrophy on one side of the body. The term "atrophoderma" signifies thinning or wasting of the skin, while "neuriticum" refers to the association of the condition with nerve involvement.
Atrophoderma neuriticum typically manifests as a solitary, well-defined patch of skin atrophy that appears sunken, depressed, or wrinkled. It usually affects the upper trunk, neck, or face, and is commonly unilateral, meaning it only occurs on one side of the body. The affected skin area may have altered pigmentation, appearing lighter or darker than the surrounding skin.
The exact cause of atrophoderma neuriticum is not well understood. However, it is believed to be related to nerve dysfunction, possibly resulting from trauma or inflammation of peripheral nerves. This condition primarily affects adolescents and young adults, with no gender or genetic predisposition.
Diagnosing atrophoderma neuriticum involves a thorough physical examination and evaluation of the patient's medical history. Skin biopsies may be performed to rule out other potential conditions that may present similar symptoms.
Treatment for atrophoderma neuriticum mainly focuses on managing the appearance of the affected skin area. Cosmetics or camouflage techniques can help to mask the atrophy, improving the patient's self-esteem. There is no specific cure for the condition, but in some cases, it may gradually resolve on its own over time.
Overall, atrophoderma neuriticum is a relatively uncommon condition characterized by localized skin atrophy on one side of the body, often associated with nerve involvement.
Glossy skin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "atrophoderma neuriticum" is a medical term used to describe a particular skin condition. Let's break it down in terms of its etymology:
1. Atrophoderma: The term "atrophy" comes from the Greek word "atrophos", meaning "wasting away" or "failure to grow". "Derma" comes from the Greek "dermatos", which means "skin". Therefore, "atrophoderma" refers to a condition characterized by the wasting away of the skin.
2. Neuriticum: The term "neuritic" is derived from the word "neuritis", which refers to the inflammation of a nerve. The suffix "-icum" is added to "neuritic" to indicate that it is linked to the condition.
In summary, "atrophoderma neuriticum" combines the concept of skin atrophy with neuritis.