LICHENIFICATION Meaning and
Definition
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Lichenification is a term used in dermatology to describe a skin condition characterized by thickening and hardening of the skin due to prolonged irritation or excessive scratching. It is a result of chronic inflammation and an attempt of the body to protect the underlying skin.
In lichenification, the skin appears thickened, leathery, and rough, with a characteristic brownish or grayish color. The affected area may also exhibit a distinct pattern of interconnected lines and creases, known as "lichenification lines." This condition commonly occurs in areas where there is repetitive rubbing, scratching, or friction, such as the elbows, knees, or neck.
Lichenification is often a symptom of an underlying skin condition, such as eczema, psoriasis, or contact dermatitis. It can also be seen in individuals with various types of chronic allergies or hypersensitivity reactions.
The thickened skin in lichenification is a response to the continuous scratching or irritation, as the body's defense mechanism tries to protect the skin from further damage. However, lichenification itself can further exacerbate the itching and discomfort, leading to a cycle of itching and scratching. Therefore, the primary treatment of lichenification involves identifying and addressing the underlying cause, as well as managing the symptoms through the use of topical corticosteroids, emollients, or antihistamines.
In summary, lichenification is a dermatological condition characterized by thickened and roughened skin due to chronic irritation, itching, and inflammation. It is often a manifestation of an underlying skin disorder and requires appropriate management to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
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Leathery induration; an induration and thickening of the skin due to a subacute inflammation caused by scratching or long continued irritation.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LICHENIFICATION
- lichenificatiof
- lichenificatiol
- lichenificatioo
- likenification
- l ichenification
- li chenification
- lic henification
- lich enification
- liche nification
- lichen ification
- licheni fication
- lichenif ication
- lichenifi cation
- lichenific ation
- lichenifica tion
- lichenificat ion
- lichenificati on
- lichenificatio n
Etymology of LICHENIFICATION
The word "lichenification" is derived from the noun "lichen" and the suffix "-ification".
The term "lichen" originally comes from the Greek word "leikhēn", which referred to a kind of plant that grows on rocks or trees. In Latin, it became "lichen" with a similar meaning. The term "lichen" was later adopted in English to describe a symbiotic organism composed of a fungus and an alga or cyanobacteria.
The suffix "-ification" comes from the Latin suffix "-ficāre", which means "to make" or "to cause to become". It is often used to form nouns that indicate the process or result of making or becoming something.
Therefore, "lichenification" refers to the process or result of forming or becoming like lichen.
