Understanding Hyperkeratosis

 

For understanding hyperkeratosis, you need to know that the skin has a substance known as keratin that performs a variety of functions for the skin. When the amount of accumulated keratin in the skin becomes too high, the condition is known as hyperkeratosis. The condition of hyperkeratosis can lead to thickening of the skin in people, and this is mainly because of a natural skin reaction to various problems. For example, rubbing, irritation and pressure on some portions of the skin can bring about a problem of hyperkeratosis. There are various other hyperkeratosis causes and you would find that the condition can be brought about due to vitamin A deficiency and excessive exposure to arsenic. There are different classifications of hyperkeratosis and we are including some common ones here.

 

Types of Hyperkeratosis

 

There are several types of hyperkeratosis and you would find that this condition is brought about in different parts and due to different reasons. The most common places where hyperkeratosis can set in include the elbows and knees, and this is generally accompanied by hyperpigmentation. This kind of hyperkeratosis is caused due to excessive kneeling and leaning on the elbows. Plantar hyperkeratosis is a hyperkeratosis of the sole of the foot and it is usually brought about wearing ill fitting shoes. Another type of hyperkeratosis is follicular hyperkeratosis, which is related to the excessive development of keratin in the hair follicles. The condition is also known as hyperkeratosis pilaris and it appears as the development of acne on the skin. Usually, it is the upper arm skin which is affected by such kind of hyperkeratosis. Another common type of hyperkeratosis is epidermolytic hyperkeratosis, a problem which has hereditary roots. This type of hyperkeratosis belongs to the ichthyosis family and is considered to be a rare problem.

 

Hyperkeratosis Treatment

 

There are several methods through which hyperkeratosis treatment can be pursued. In the past, these different methods have been employed to ensure that the impacted skin is softened and the major effect of hyperkeratosis is nullified through medications. The general medications comprise of urea based creams that help in breaking down the buildup of keratin in the affected region. In some cases, removal of the affected skin might be needed as hyperkeratosis is a condition that affects only the upper skin layer.