HYPERKERATOSIS SUBUNGUALIS Meaning and
Definition
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Hyperkeratosis subungualis is a medical term that refers to the thickening and overgrowth of the skin under the nail plate, specifically the nail bed. It is characterized by the accumulation and excessive production of keratin, a tough protein that forms the outer layer of the skin, leading to the formation of a raised and hardened bump or ridge under the nail.
This condition typically affects the fingernails and toenails, causing various symptoms such as nail discoloration, detachment, and deformity. The growth of excess keratin can result from a wide range of factors, including chronic trauma to the nail bed, fungal infections, or as a consequence of other conditions like psoriasis, eczema, or autoimmune diseases. Additionally, certain medications, chemical exposure, or poor nail hygiene can contribute to the development of hyperkeratosis subungualis.
The primary treatment for hyperkeratosis subungualis involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition. This may involve the use of antifungal medications to combat infections, topical or systemic treatments for managing skin conditions, or adjustments to lifestyle habits that may be aggravating the issue. In severe cases where the thickened skin causes significant discomfort or interferes with daily activities, physical or surgical interventions such as debridement or nail removal may be considered.
If left untreated, hyperkeratosis subungualis can lead to chronic pain, increased risk of bacterial or fungal infections, progressive nail damage, and potential impairment of manual or ambulatory functions. Seeking timely medical attention and implementing appropriate treatment measures is crucial in managing this condition effectively.
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H. Affecting the nail beds of the hands or feet.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HYPERKERATOSIS SUBUNGUALIS
- hype rkeratosis subungualis
- hyper keratosis subungualis
- hyperk eratosis subungualis
- hyperke ratosis subungualis
- hyperker atosis subungualis
- hyperkera tosis subungualis
- hyperkerat osis subungualis
- hyperkerato sis subungualis
- hyperkeratos is subungualis
- hyperkeratosi s subungualis
- hyperkeratosis s ubungualis
- hyperkeratosis su bungualis
- hyperkeratosis sub ungualis
- hyperkeratosis subu ngualis
- hyperkeratosis subun gualis
- hyperkeratosis subung ualis
- hyperkeratosis subungu alis
- hyperkeratosis subungua lis
- hyperkeratosis subungual is
- hyperkeratosis subunguali s
Etymology of HYPERKERATOSIS SUBUNGUALIS
The word "hyperkeratosis subungualis" is a medical term that describes a condition characterized by excessive keratinization beneath the fingernails or toenails. To understand its etymology, we can break down the word into its roots:
1. "Hyper" is derived from the Greek word "huper", which means "over" or "above". In medical terminology, it typically indicates excess or abnormality.
2. "Keratosis" comes from the Greek word "keras", meaning "horn" or "scale", and the suffix "-osis", indicating a medical condition or process. "Keratosis" refers to the abnormal growth or thickening of the skin's outer layer, often resulting in rough or scaly patches.
