Hyperkeratosis
1. [noun] hyperkeratosis refers to thickening of your skin’s outer layer. This layer is made of a protein called keratin. Keratin can start to overgrow in many different conditions. Some types of hyperkeratosis are inherited conditions. They may be present at birth. Other kinds of hyperkeratosis may be early signs of skin cancer. They tend to develop later in life. In some cases, hyperkeratosis is the skin’s response to rubbing or irritation. A corn or callus on your hands or feet is a form of hyperkeratosis. Keratin is a tough type of protein and is meant to help protect your skin. A bump or patch of thickened skin is known as a hyperkeratotic lesion. https://www.healthline.com/health/hyperkeratosis ; Accessed June 19 2019 Hyperkeratosis (keratodermia, keratodermas, keratome) is one of the forms of keratosis, a skin condition in which the skin is covered with dry coarse scales due to the overproduction of keratin, resulting in thickening of the granular layer of the dermis of the skin. Such seal skin can appear anywhere, especially in areas of friction or irritation, but there are areas on the body are more prone to the formation of Horny growths: heels, knees, elbows and forearms. https://qsota.com/hyperkeratosis/ ; Accessed June 19 2019. Common forms of hyperkeratosis of the skin, related to the foot include: corns and calluses Note: hyperkeratosis of the nails refer to thickened nails NOTE: Hyperkeratosis has many different types that are beyond the scope of this simple definition
Frequently Asked Questions
How can daily walking or sporting activities lead to hyperkeratosis on the feet?
Regular walking or sports subject the feet to constant friction and pressure. This repeated irritation can trigger the skin to produce extra keratin, resulting in thickened areas such as corns or calluses on the soles and heels.
In what way does the Greek origin of the term guide our understanding of hyperkeratosis affecting the foot?
The term combines 'hyper,' meaning excessive, and 'keratos' for keratin, the protective protein. This etymology highlights that hyperkeratosis involves the excess buildup of keratin, as seen in thickened skin patches on feet due to routine friction or pressure.
Why is it a misconception to think that any thickened skin on the foot is a severe issue?
Many assume that any thickened skin immediately signals a serious problem. However, increased keratin in areas like the heel or ball of the foot is often a normal protective response to ongoing pressure or rubbing rather than an indication of an underlying disease.