Xerosis
Template:DiseaseDisorder infobox Template:Search infobox Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
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Overview
Xerosis is defined as dry skin
Epidemiology and Demographics
- Extremely common
- 99% of cases are benign
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
- Family history
- Environmental exposure
- Medical exposure
Physical Examination
- Complete physical including thyroid examination, entire skin surface
Eyes
-
Conjunctival xerosis
Ear Nose and Throat
Neck exam should include full evaluation of the thyroid gland
Laboratory Findings
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Thyroid function tests
- Liver function tests (LFTs)
- Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) / creatinine
Other Diagnostic Studies
- If necessary, HIV testing
Differential Diagnosis
In alphabetical order. [1] [2]
- Anemia
- Atopic dermatitis
- Biliary Disease
- Chronic Renal Failure
- Diabetes Mellitus
- Eczema craquele (common in elderly)
- Genetic conditions
- HIV
- Hyperthyroidism
- Hypothyroidism
- Ichthyosis vulgaris
- Liver Disease
- Lymphoma (uncommon association)
- Renal Insufficiency
- Sarcoidosis
Treatment
Pharmacotherapy
Acute Pharmacotherapies
- Bile-acid-sequestering medications can help liver patients
- Topical steroid ointments
- Systemic retinoids
Chronic Pharmacotherapies
- Daily use of emollients and humectants
- Hydroxyzine
- Phototherapy
- Treat underlying malignancy, if necessary