Dermalgia is a medical term referring to the sensation of pain occurring in the skin. It is a combination of the Greek words "derma," meaning skin, and "algos," meaning pain. The condition is also commonly known as cutaneous pain.
Dermalgia is characterized by a sharp, burning, or stinging pain that is felt specifically in the skin. Unlike deep tissue pain, which is felt in muscles or joints, dermalgia is limited to the superficial layers of the skin.
The causes of dermalgia can vary widely. It can be related to nerve dysfunction, skin conditions, or injuries that affect the skin's surface. Certain medical conditions such as shingles, fibromyalgia, or neuropathy can also cause dermalgia.
Symptoms of dermalgia may include hypersensitivity to touch or light pressure on the skin, heightened pain response to stimuli that are normally not painful, or an intense itching sensation. The level of pain experienced can range from mild to severe and can be chronic or intermittent.
Treatment for dermalgia is directed at addressing the underlying cause of the pain. This may involve medication to manage pain and inflammation, physical therapy, topical creams, or other interventions specific to the individual's condition.
In summary, dermalgia is a medical condition characterized by pain occurring specifically in the skin. It can be caused by various factors and may present with different symptoms, but treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the pain.
