Definition
Hyperkeratosis is a thickening of the outer layer of the skin, more precisely the horny layer, which contains, among other things, keratin (hence the word “hyper” – too much and “keratosis” – horn). Normally, the corneal layer plays a protective role, but various causes can lead to a disorder and thus increased formation of the cornea.
Causes of hyperkeratosis
- Mechanical irritation: Continued irritation of the skin, such as increased pressure on one area, leads to the increased formation of cells in this region of the skin, making it thicker.
- UV radiation: UV radiation also causes an increased formation of skin cells and thus the skin becomes thicker.
- In addition, infections or a vitamin A deficiency can also lead to hyperkeratosis. Hyperkeratosis, which does not occur due to irritation of the skin, can also be an inherited disease, but it is often noticed in children.
Forms of hyperkeratosis
There are many different forms of hyperkeratosis, here are some of them listed:
- Warts
- Corns
- Calluses
- Actinic Keratosis
Symptoms of hyperkeratosis
Symptoms vary depending on the type of hyperkeratosis. In corns, pain is often the main symptom, as a cone-shaped thickening forms, which grows towards the bone and thus exerts pressure. In the other forms of hyperkeratosis, pain is rarely present or symptoms are generally rare.
Prophylaxis: In the case of corns and calluses, good shoes or insoles can prevent their formation. Actinic keratosis develops as a result of long-term exposure to sunlight, it is particularly present on the scalp. Sunscreen or a protective headgear is advisable here. Warts are often caused by a viral infection, so the only prophylaxis consists of hygienic measures, such as wearing shoes in public swimming pools.
Diagnosis
In most cases, the diagnosis of the gaze is sufficient, in rare cases a biopsy may be advisable. As for the exclusion of skin cancer in actinic keratosis.
