Erythrodermia is a medical condition where the skin becomes red and inflamed in patches or all over the body. The word is pronounced /ɛrɪθrəʊˈdɜːmiə/ and can be broken down into three parts: "erythro-" meaning red, "-derm" meaning skin, and "-ia" indicating a medical condition. The phonetic transcription shows that the stress is on the second syllable and the "r" sound is emphasized. Proper spelling of medical terms is important to ensure accurate communication between healthcare professionals and patients.
Erythrodermia is a medical condition characterized by widespread redness and inflammation of the skin. It is a rare, but serious dermatological disorder that affects the entire body, including the face, scalp, trunk, and limbs. Erythroderma can occur as a primary condition or as a result of an underlying disease, infection, or adverse drug reaction.
The hallmark symptom of erythrodermia is the intense redness of the skin, which may be accompanied by severe itching, pain, and scaling. The skin becomes extremely sensitive and may shed in large flakes, resembling the appearance of a burn. Other symptoms may include swelling, blistering, and weeping of the skin, as well as an increased vulnerability to infections.
Erythrodermia can be caused by a variety of factors, including autoimmune disorders such as psoriasis or eczema, allergic reactions, drug reactions, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, certain infections, and metabolic disorders. It is important to identify and treat the underlying cause of erythroderma, as it can be potentially life-threatening if left untreated.
Treatment for erythrodermia involves addressing the underlying cause, if known, and providing supportive care to alleviate symptoms. This may include the use of topical or systemic corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, antihistamines to alleviate itching, and moisturizers to prevent excessive dryness of the skin. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required for close monitoring and more intensive treatment.
Erythema, dermatitis with a general redness of the skin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "erythrodermia" is derived from two Greek roots:
1. "Erythros" (ἐρυθρός): This root means "red". It is commonly used in medical terminology to refer to the color red.
2. "Derma" (δέρμα): This root means "skin". It is frequently used in medical terms related to skin or dermatology.
When combined, these roots form "erythrodermia", which is a medical condition characterized by widespread and intense redness of the skin.