HYPERKERATOSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Hyperkeratosis is a medical condition characterized by an excessive thickening of the outermost layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. It occurs as a result of an abnormal buildup of keratin, a tough protein that provides protection and structural integrity to the skin. This excessive accumulation of keratin causes the skin to become thick, rough, and hardened, often resulting in the development of calluses, corns, or warts.
Hyperkeratosis can be classified into different types based on its location and cause. Common forms include plantar hyperkeratosis, which affects the soles of the feet, and actinic keratosis, which is caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Other types include seborrheic keratosis, a benign skin growth typically found in older individuals, and follicular hyperkeratosis, which affects the hair follicles, leading to rough skin patches.
The condition can result from various factors, including chronic pressure or friction on the skin, repeated exposure to irritants, infections, genetic predisposition, or certain skin disorders. Hyperkeratosis can be uncomfortable and aesthetically displeasing, but it is usually not a serious medical concern. Treatment options for hyperkeratosis primarily aim to remove or reduce the thickened skin. These may include regular exfoliation, moisturizers, keratolytic agents, prescription medications, cryotherapy, or surgical procedures. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
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Hypertrophy of the horny layer of the epidermis, keratodermia, keratosis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HYPERKERATOSIS
- gyperkeratosis
- byperkeratosis
- nyperkeratosis
- jyperkeratosis
- uyperkeratosis
- yyperkeratosis
- htperkeratosis
- hgperkeratosis
- hhperkeratosis
- huperkeratosis
- h7perkeratosis
- h6perkeratosis
- hyoerkeratosis
- hylerkeratosis
- hy-erkeratosis
- hy0erkeratosis
- hypwrkeratosis
- hypsrkeratosis
- hypdrkeratosis
- hyprrkeratosis
Etymology of HYPERKERATOSIS
The word "hyperkeratosis" is derived from two Greek roots: "hyper" meaning "excessive" or "over" and "keratos" meaning "horn". So, the etymology of "hyperkeratosis" can be understood as "excessive or overgrowth of keratin", which refers to the thickening or hardening of the outer layer (epidermis) of the skin.
Similar spelling words for HYPERKERATOSIS
