Medical Terminology for Wrinkles
The medical term for wrinkles is "rhytides" (singular: rhytid). 1
Clinical Context and Usage
The term "rhytides" is the formal medical terminology used throughout dermatology, aesthetic medicine, and plastic surgery literature to describe wrinkles and facial lines. 1 This terminology appears consistently in:
- Clinical assessment scales: The Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale (WSRS) formally measures rhytides severity in aesthetic procedures 1
- Treatment documentation: Medical literature describes "fine rhytides" for superficial wrinkles and "deep rhytides" for more pronounced facial lines 1
- Anatomic classification: Specific types include periorbital rhytides (crow's feet), glabellar rhytides (between eyebrows), and perioral rhytides (around the mouth, also called "smoker's lines") 1
Pathophysiology
Rhytides result from loss of collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, leading to reduced skin elasticity. 1 The formation involves:
- Dermal changes: Decreased collagen synthesis and breakdown of structural proteins 1
- Volume loss: Atrophy of subcutaneous fat and weakening of supporting facial muscles 1
- Vascular degeneration: Decreased blood flow reducing oxygen and nutrient supply to facial tissues 1
Clinical Documentation
When documenting in medical records, use "rhytides" rather than "wrinkles" for professional medical communication. 2, 3, 4 The term appears in treatment protocols for botulinum toxin injections, laser resurfacing, and dermal filler procedures. 3, 4, 5