LICHEN STROPHULOSUS Meaning and
Definition
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Lichen strophulosus is a medical term used to describe a skin condition mainly occurring in infants and young children. It is a benign, self-limited rash characterized by the presence of small, flat, red or pink-colored bumps that typically appear on the chest, abdomen, back, and sometimes the face. The name "lichen strophulosus" is derived from the Latin word "lichen," which refers to a type of plant that grows symbiotically with fungi or algae, and "strophulus," which means a small rash.
The exact cause of lichen strophulosus is unknown, but it is believed to be triggered by various factors, including a hypersensitivity reaction to allergens, such as certain foods, medications, or environmental substances. The condition is not contagious and generally resolves on its own within a few months without any specific treatment. However, in some cases, mild topical corticosteroid creams or lotions may be prescribed to relieve itching and discomfort.
The characteristic appearance of lichen strophulosus includes numerous small, scaly papules that may occasionally become raised, and in some cases, they may develop a slightly yellowish crust. The rash is typically non-pruritic or mildly itchy, but it can sometimes cause mild discomfort. It often occurs in cycles, with the rash appearing and disappearing over time.
In summary, lichen strophulosus is a common and harmless skin condition characterized by small, pinkish bumps on the skin of infants and young children. It is typically self-limiting and does not cause any long-term complications.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LICHEN STROPHULOSUS
- lichen strophulosur
- lichenstrophulowsus
- l ichen strophulosus
- li chen strophulosus
- lic hen strophulosus
- lich en strophulosus
- liche n strophulosus
- lichen s trophulosus
- lichen st rophulosus
- lichen str ophulosus
- lichen stroph ulosus
- lichen strophu losus
- lichen strophul osus
- lichen strophulo sus
- lichen strophulos us
- lichen strophulosu s
Etymology of LICHEN STROPHULOSUS
The word "lichen strophulosus" is a scientific term used to describe a specific type of chronic, itchy rash commonly found in infants and young children.
Breaking down the etymology of this term:
1. Lichen: The term "lichen" originates from the Greek word "leikhēn", which means "lichen" or "moss". The term was originally used to describe a type of plant that grows on rocks or tree trunks. It later came to be associated with certain skin conditions that displayed a similar appearance.
2. Strophulosus: This word is derived from the Greek word "strophulos", which means "a turning or spinning around". The suffix "-us" is commonly used in Latin and Greek to indicate possession or association.
Combining these two elements, "lichen strophulosus" essentially means a condition that resembles lichen and is associated with spinning or turning.
