Hyperkeratosis is a condition in which the skin becomes thickened causing corns and calluses on certain parts. Normally skin is somewhat thicker on the outer layer for giving protection for the underlying tissue and also to withstand rubbing and irritant reactions. Skin’s layer also protects you against sunlight, infection and powerful chemicals from entering the tissue and muscles below.
Types Of Hyperkeratosis :
Hyperkeratosis can occur in many forms like corns, calluses, warts, and eczema and lichen planus.
- Corns are small areas of skin layer that thickens when the skin is subjected to repeated pressure. Corns develop on the toes and palms of hands. Normally corns are harmless but for some it may be painful.
- Warts are nothing but small bumps on the skin surface which develop on the feet and hands. Eczema is a skin inflammation caused by chemicals and allergens.
Causes :
Chronic type of eczema can cause hyperkeratosis giving rise to irritation, dry skin, scaling or patches on the skin. Even prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause this condition. If not treated well, it can cause skin cancer also. Seborrheic keratosis are small growth found on legs, trunk and face and is very common in adults. For some patients, it is passed to next generation by genes. The symptoms of lesions are seen when the child begins to grow.
Diagnosis :
Your doctor may physically examine you and collect information about the skin problem. He may check for family history and allergic reactions. Allergy can be main factor for people affected with chronic eczema. He may go for skin biopsy to confirm hyperkeratosis.
Prevention :
It is easy to prevent corns and plantar warts by wearing right fitting shoes and avoid walking barefoot in public places. In case of allergic reactions, you have to stay away from allergy causing agents. Do not go out in hot climate and avoid working with strong chemicals. Use cotton clothes which absorb moisture from the skin. Follow the instructions of your doctor for avoiding eczema. However if hereditary is the triggering factor, one cannot escape from hyperkeratosis.
Pictures of Hyperkeratosis :
Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Hyperkeratosis
Treatment :
Treatment methods depend on the form of hyperkeratosis.For treating corns, calluses, you can use padding and moleskin to get rid of pain and discomfort. Choose only right size shoes to avoid pressure. In case of warts you can easily remove them by cryosurgery, vaporizing technique, and trimming. Warts can be trimmed down during surgery but take enough care that you are not getting it back. Several home remedies are also available for treating warts. Diabetic patients should take more care for preventing hyperkeratosis.
Topical ointments containing corticosteroid is prescribed for treating chronic eczema and lichen planus. Cryosurgery is done for removing lichen planus and actinic keratoses. In case you have inherited the symptoms, then it is difficult to cure.
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