Xeroderma

Xeroderma: Dry skin and its causes

Xeroderma, also known as asteatosis, ichthyosis abortifas, xeroderma or xerosis, is a skin condition characterized by severe dryness. This disorder can affect any area of ​​the body and lead to unpleasant symptoms such as flaking, itching, redness and cracking.

The term "xeroderma" comes from the Greek words "xero-", meaning "dry", and "derma", which translates to "skin". It is used to describe a skin condition that is characterized by insufficient levels of natural lubrication and hydration.

The causes of xeroderma can be varied. One of the main reasons is dysfunction of the sebaceous glands, which are responsible for the production of sebum - an oily secretion that retains moisture in the skin. When sebum production decreases, the skin loses its natural moisture and becomes dry and flaky.

Other factors that may contribute to the development of xeroderma include climatic conditions such as cold and dry air, wind and low humidity. Frequent exposure to such conditions can deprive the skin of natural moisture and cause dryness.

It is also important to note that some people may be predisposed to xeroderma due to genetic factors. Some inherited conditions, such as ichthyosis, can lead to chronic dry skin and require special care.

Treatment for xeroderma involves moisturizing and softening the skin. Regular use of moisturizers such as creams, lotions or oils can help restore the skin's natural moisture levels. In addition, you should avoid prolonged exposure to conditions that can dehydrate your skin and take steps to protect your skin from environmental damage, such as wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen.

If the symptoms of xeroderma become severe or cause significant discomfort, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist. A specialist will be able to conduct a detailed examination of the skin, determine the cause of dryness and offer the most effective treatment.

In general, xeroderma is a condition that requires special attention and care. Proper skin care, regular moisturizing and protection from harmful factors will help reduce dryness and improve skin condition.

Xeroderma is a group of chronic disorders associated with disruption of the process of keratinization of the deep layers of the skin - the dermis itself. There are a sufficient number of classifications of xeroderma according to various criteria. Based on their prevalence, they distinguish between nodular, severe, moderate and mild forms of the disease; somewhat less often you can hear the terms superficial or monocellular form of xeroderma, but it is important to remember that all these are variants of the same degenerative process. In addition, there is a syndrome of congenital xeroderma alogia, in which the process of formation of keratinocytes is noticeably impaired or completely absent. In general, pathology can be divided into several subgroups, which are differentiated by the form, cause of occurrence and nature of the processes in the skin. The most significant of them are the classical and dysplastic xerodermic forms. The dysplastic variant is the most severe and is associated with an increased risk of complications. However, the most important trend in recent years has been the rapid spread of the so-called acquired xerodermic dysplastic xeroderma. Xerosis pigmentosa is hereditary, with many genetic variants, and is more common among men. The development of the disease is associated with age-related involution of epidermal and hypodermal structures, as well as the accumulation of metabolic products and waste products of bacteria. The pigmented form occurs as an outcome of other skin diseases, such as Herbert's impetigo, Kelloy-Walker disease, limited neurodermatitis - lepromatous form, diffuse neurodermatitis with retinal lesions - amaurotic form. Parasitic xerosis can develop when infected with taenia. In these cases, its development is facilitated by chronic nutritional deficiency, grueling physical activity and exposure to toxic factors. Also, there is ichthyosis, which possibly originates from the Langhan type of xerosis. In this case, the disease is hereditary in nature and is a non-inflammatory skin disease. It manifests itself as keratosis of the skin on the face and limbs, accompanied by eczema-like exfoliation of the layers of the epidermis, general anxiety, and severe itching during remission. In children, it often occurs in the form of recurrent juvenile ichthyosis.