From the Guidelines
The medical term for dry skin on physical examination is xerosis cutis. This condition presents as skin that appears rough, flaky, or scaly, and may be accompanied by itching or a feeling of tightness. Xerosis occurs when the skin loses too much water or oil, compromising the skin barrier function. According to the study by 1, dry skin (xerosis) is the most common cutaneous sign in patients on dialysis, although this does not necessarily correlate with pruritus.
Key Characteristics of Xerosis Cutis
- Rough, flaky, or scaly skin
- Itching or feeling of tightness
- Loss of water or oil, compromising skin barrier function
Treatment and Management
Treatment typically involves regular application of moisturizers containing ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or urea. For mild to moderate cases, applying a fragrance-free moisturizer immediately after bathing while the skin is still damp can be effective, as suggested by 1. More severe cases may require prescription emollients or topical steroids if inflammation is present. Patients should avoid hot showers, use gentle cleansers, maintain adequate hydration, and consider using a humidifier in dry environments.
Underlying Causes
Underlying causes of xerosis include:
- Aging
- Environmental factors (low humidity, cold weather)
- Excessive bathing
- Certain medications
- Medical conditions like atopic dermatitis, thyroid disorders, or diabetes, which may require specific management beyond skin care. As noted in 1, use of emollients is essential in managing xerosis, particularly in patients with underlying medical conditions.
From the Research
Medical Term for Dry Skin
The medical term for dry skin on physical examination is xerosis or xeroderma, also referred to as asteatosis 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
Characteristics of Xerosis
Xerosis is characterized by:
- Rough or coarse skin 2
- Dry, cracked, and fissured skin 5
- Pruritic skin 5
- Scaly skin 6
- Impaired keratinocyte differentiation 6
Diagnosis of Xerosis
Xerosis is generally diagnosed on clinical grounds 4, and possible trigger factors must be avoided, and comorbidities should be adequately and specifically treated 4.
Treatment of Xerosis
Treatment of xerosis should seek to: