Hyperkeratosis is a general term that refers to the thickening of a certain area of the skin. There are many forms of the problem, from eczema to warts, so Dr. According to Annamária Rózsa, dermatologist at Dermatica, the treatment is also complex according to the diagnosis.
What causes it, what types are there?
Hyperkeratosis refers to the thickening of the stratum corneum of the keratinizing epithelium, in other words, the production of corn in larger quantities than usual. The horn has a keratin the component called is the one that appears in larger quantities in the epidermis of the skin in this case. Two main forms of hyperkeratosis can be distinguished.
– Pressure-induced hyperkeratosis develops as a result of excessive pressure, constant or repeated mechanical impact, inflammation or skin irritation. This happens when the skin begins to produce an extra layer of keratin to protect itself from damage. In such cases, calluses can be detected – in ordinary language, corns, crusting of the skin.
– In the case of hyperkeratosis not caused by pressure, there is no external irritation, experts attribute this to genetics on the one hand, and infections on the other. This results in diseases belonging to hereditary cornification disorders, as well as warts caused by HPV, verruca vulgaris, of infectious origin.
Hyperkeratosis can appear in many general medical conditions – in eczema, psoriasis, in the form of various warts, as well as in some skin symptoms of photodamage, thickening of the stratum corneum (actinic keratosis) can also be characteristic. In addition, of course, hyperkeratosis can also occur as a symptom in many skin diseases, the identification of which, however, is the task of a dermatologist.
What treatment options are there?
- The first and most important thing for the patient to do is to consult a specialist if he notices any changes in his skin. Pain occurs only in some forms of hyperkeratosis, such as certain calluses and warts, but even in the absence of this, a dermatological examination is important, emphasizes Dr. Annamária Rózsa, dermatologist at Dermatica. Of course, the treatment can only be decided after having the diagnosis, we need to know exactly what is behind the thickening of the skin. If the skin formula is in a place that bothers the patient, maybe hurts, turns red or is just aesthetically disturbing, we can choose from several methods for removal. Depending on the type, freezing, surgical removal, destruction with an electric or laser knife, and local application of wart killers can all be considered. Choosing the right method can always be done after assessing the individual problem. If a cancerous lesion is suspected in the formula, it may be necessary to perform a biopsy, that is, a sample taken during which a histological analysis is performed.
What can we do to prevent it?
- Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes or even insoles to prevent calluses and corns.
- It may be necessary to undergo a possible orthopedic examination and wear medical shoes.
- Don’t go barefoot in places where you can get a fungal infection, such as swimming pools, beaches, gyms, showers.
- Anyone prone to eczema should avoid scented cosmetic products, strong chemicals, extreme cold or hot temperatures, and rooms with dry air.
- Moisturize the skin properly, preferably with cleansers and lotions recommended by a dermatologist.
- Even at the first rays of the sun and in the winter sun, use sun protection products on all exposed parts of the body.
- Let’s choose absorbent clothing made of natural materials, in which permanent sweating can be avoided as much as possible.
Source: Dermatics
Source: www.patikamagazin.hu
