Hyperkeratosis is a condition characterized by the thickening of the outer layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum. This thickening occurs due to an overproduction of keratin, a tough and protective protein found in the skin. Hyperkeratosis can develop in response to various factors, including chronic friction, pressure, or irritation, and is commonly associated with conditions such as calluses, corns, and eczema.

There are several types of hyperkeratosis, each with distinct causes and symptoms. For example, chronic mechanical irritation (like that experienced by people who frequently use certain tools) can lead to localized thickening of the skin. In other cases, hyperkeratosis may be caused by systemic conditions or environmental factors.

Symptoms of hyperkeratosis may include:

• Thickened, rough patches of skin
• Calluses or corns
• Areas of flaky or scaly skin

Treatment typically focuses on addressing the underlying cause and may involve:

• Regular removal of thickened skin
• Protective footwear or pads to alleviate friction
• Topical treatments, such as keratolytic medications, to help soften and thin the affected areas

For more detailed information, you can refer to the following sources:

• Cleveland Clinic on Hyperkeratosis
• StatPearls: Hyperkeratosis
• Harvard Health: Hyperkeratosis

In summary, hyperkeratosis is a skin condition marked by an excess of keratin leading to thickened skin, which can occur due to various factors, necessitating a tailored approach to treatment.

Sources

Hyperkeratosis: What It Is, Types, Causes & TreatmentHyperkeratosis - StatPearls - NCBI BookshelfDefinition of hyperkeratosis - NCI Dictionary of Cancer TermsHyperkeratosis: Symptoms and Treatment - WebMDHyperkeratosis: Causes, symptoms, and treatmentHyperkeratosis - Harvard HealthHyperkeratosis - Wikipedia

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