Xerosis

Definition

Xerosis is the atypical dehydration of the mucus membrane or skin.

Alternative names

Asteatotic eczema, Eczema craquele

Causes, incidence and risk factors

Dry skin may be caused due to dry, cold or hot but dry conditions. Central air conditioning, heaters, fireplaces, frequent baths especially with hot water and for long time, exposure to ultra-violet light, psoriasis and thyroid disorders can cause xerosis.

Frequent baths, dry or cold weather and older age are the risk factors for xerosis.

Symptoms

Shrunken and dehydrated skin; rough skin feel; feeling of tightness after bath, swimming or shower; cracks or lines; mild or severe itching; redness; deep fissures that may bleed; flaking, scaling or peeling if the skin are the symptoms of xerosis.

Signs and tests

Xerosis is diagnosed based on medical history, history of bathing habits, diet, skin care and physical examination of the skin. Other tests may be done for other medical conditions causing dry skin.

Treatment

Xerosis (dry skin) generally responds well to home care and lifestyle changes. Avoiding hot showers for long time and using moisturizers and over the counter creams help in treating xerosis. Over the counter creams contain lactic acid alone or in combination with urea. If dry skin becomes red and itchy then lotions containing hydrocortisone can be used. Wet dressings are prescribed.

Expectations (Prognosis)

Prognosis is good with home care.

Complications

If adequate care is not taken for dry skin then it can lead to atrophic gastritis (reddening, swelling and cracking), folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles) or cellulitis (serious bacterial infection of the tissue under the skin which can spread to lymphatic tissue).

Calling your health care provide

If the dry skin does not respond to home care and lifestyle or the symptoms are severe then calling a health care provider is better.

Prevention

Taking bath with warm water for short time, using moisturizers, using humidifiers, avoiding harsh and drying soaps (soaps containing dyes and fragrances) and use of natural cotton cloths can prevent xerosis.

Reference

Nih.gov, mayoclinic.com