KERATODERMA Meaning and
Definition
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Keratoderma is a dermatological condition characterized by excessive thickening of the skin on the palms of the hands and/or soles of the feet. It is a rare, genetic disorder that affects the outermost layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. The thickening of the skin occurs due to an abnormal buildup of keratin, a tough protein that forms the protective layer of the skin, hair, and nails.
Keratoderma can manifest in different forms, categorized into three main types: palmoplantar keratoderma, focal palmoplantar keratoderma, and diffuse palmoplantar keratoderma. Palmoplantar keratoderma refers to a thickening of the skin over the entire palm and sole, while focal palmoplantar keratoderma affects only certain areas, often appearing as discrete patches. Diffuse palmoplantar keratoderma involves an extensive thickening of the skin, resulting in a virtually armor-like appearance.
This condition is typically inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, meaning that an affected individual has a 50% chance of passing the genetic mutation to their children. However, it can also develop due to gene mutations or as a symptom of certain underlying disorders.
The symptoms of keratoderma may vary and can include dryness, scaling, redness, pain, and in severe cases, cracks or fissures that can lead to infections. Treatment options generally focus on managing the symptoms and preventing complications, such as moisturizing the skin, using keratolytic creams to reduce the thickening, wearing specialized footwear, and avoiding triggers like excessive heat or friction.
Common Misspellings for KERATODERMA
- jeratoderma
- meratoderma
- leratoderma
- oeratoderma
- ieratoderma
- kwratoderma
- ksratoderma
- kdratoderma
- krratoderma
- k4ratoderma
- k3ratoderma
- keeatoderma
- kedatoderma
- kefatoderma
- ketatoderma
- ke5atoderma
- ke4atoderma
- kerztoderma
- kerstoderma
Etymology of KERATODERMA
The word "keratoderma" is derived from two Greek roots: "keratos" (κέρατος), which means "horn" or "hard substance", and "derma" (δέρμα), which means "skin". Hence, "keratoderma" refers to a condition characterized by abnormal thickening or hardening of the skin.
Similar spelling words for KERATODERMA
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