Xeroderma: Difference between revisions

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== Causes ==
== Causes ==
Xeroderma can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Xeroderma can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
* **Environmental factors**: Exposure to cold weather, low humidity, and excessive use of hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness.
* '''Environmental factors''': Exposure to cold weather, low humidity, and excessive use of hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness.
* **Medical conditions**: Conditions such as [[atopic dermatitis]], [[psoriasis]], and [[hypothyroidism]] can contribute to xeroderma.
* '''Medical conditions''': Conditions such as [[atopic dermatitis]], [[psoriasis]], and [[hypothyroidism]] can contribute to xeroderma.
* **Aging**: As people age, their skin produces less oil, which can result in dryness.
* '''Aging''': As people age, their skin produces less oil, which can result in dryness.
* **Medications**: Certain medications, such as diuretics and retinoids, can cause dry skin as a side effect.
* '''Medications''': Certain medications, such as diuretics and retinoids, can cause dry skin as a side effect.
== Symptoms ==
== Symptoms ==
The symptoms of xeroderma include:
The symptoms of xeroderma include:
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== Treatment ==
== Treatment ==
Treatment for xeroderma focuses on restoring moisture to the skin and addressing any underlying causes. Common treatments include:
Treatment for xeroderma focuses on restoring moisture to the skin and addressing any underlying causes. Common treatments include:
* **Moisturizers**: Regular use of emollients and moisturizers can help to hydrate the skin.
* '''Moisturizers''': Regular use of emollients and moisturizers can help to hydrate the skin.
* **Topical treatments**: In some cases, topical corticosteroids or other medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and itching.
* '''Topical treatments''': In some cases, topical corticosteroids or other medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and itching.
* **Lifestyle changes**: Avoiding hot showers, using a humidifier, and wearing protective clothing can help to prevent dry skin.
* '''Lifestyle changes''': Avoiding hot showers, using a humidifier, and wearing protective clothing can help to prevent dry skin.
== Prevention ==
== Prevention ==
Preventive measures for xeroderma include:
Preventive measures for xeroderma include:

Latest revision as of 18:40, 12 April 2025

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
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Xeroderma
File:Xeroderma knuckles.jpg
Synonyms Xerodermia, Xerosis cutis
Pronounce N/A
Specialty Dermatology
Symptoms Dry skin, scaling, itching
Complications Infection, cracking skin
Onset Any age, more common in older adults
Duration Chronic
Types N/A
Causes Environmental factors, genetic predisposition
Risks Cold weather, low humidity, frequent bathing
Diagnosis Clinical examination
Differential diagnosis Ichthyosis, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis
Prevention N/A
Treatment Moisturizers, emollients, topical steroids
Medication Urea cream, lactic acid, glycerin
Prognosis N/A
Frequency Common
Deaths N/A


Xeroderma (also known as xerosis cutis) is a condition characterized by excessively dry skin. It is a common dermatological issue that can affect individuals of all ages. Xeroderma is often associated with dehydration, environmental factors, and certain medical conditions.

Causes[edit]

Xeroderma can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Environmental factors: Exposure to cold weather, low humidity, and excessive use of hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness.
  • Medical conditions: Conditions such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and hypothyroidism can contribute to xeroderma.
  • Aging: As people age, their skin produces less oil, which can result in dryness.
  • Medications: Certain medications, such as diuretics and retinoids, can cause dry skin as a side effect.

Symptoms[edit]

The symptoms of xeroderma include:

  • Dry, rough, and scaly skin
  • Itching
  • Redness
  • Cracks in the skin, which can sometimes bleed

Diagnosis[edit]

Diagnosis of xeroderma is typically based on a physical examination and the patient's medical history. In some cases, additional tests may be conducted to rule out underlying conditions.

Treatment[edit]

Treatment for xeroderma focuses on restoring moisture to the skin and addressing any underlying causes. Common treatments include:

  • Moisturizers: Regular use of emollients and moisturizers can help to hydrate the skin.
  • Topical treatments: In some cases, topical corticosteroids or other medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and itching.
  • Lifestyle changes: Avoiding hot showers, using a humidifier, and wearing protective clothing can help to prevent dry skin.

Prevention[edit]

Preventive measures for xeroderma include:

  • Using gentle, fragrance-free skin care products
  • Limiting exposure to harsh environmental conditions
  • Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water
  • Applying moisturizers regularly, especially after bathing

See also[edit]

References[edit]

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External links[edit]

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