Xerosis

Template:DiseaseDisorder infobox Template:Search infobox Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

Xerosis is defined as dry skin

Epidemiology and Demographics

• Extremely common
• 99% of cases are benign

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.

• 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

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