MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Xerosis

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Xerosis

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative Names Definition Causes	Symptoms Treatment Prevention

Illustrations

Xerosis - close-up

Alternative Names Return to top

Asteatotic eczema; Eczema craquele

Definition Return to top

Xerosis is an abnormal dryness of the skin or mucus membranes.

Causes Return to top

Dry skin usually gets worse during the winter.

Older people are usually affected more by this condition.

Symptoms Return to top

The skin is dry, scaly, itchy, and red. Fine cracks may appear on the skin.

The arms and legs are usually affected most.

Treatment Return to top

Treatments include:

Moisturizers, especially those that contain urea and lactic acid
Topical steroids -- for areas that get very inflamed and itchy

Prevention Return to top

Avoid excess exposure to water
Keep the bath water relatively cool
Use gentle skin cleansers that do not contain dyes and fragrances

Update Date: 10/11/2008

Updated by: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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