Question

What is hyperkeratism?

Answer 1

Hyperkeratosis is when the outer layer of the skin is thickened. The outer layer of the skin will contain keratin, which is a protective protein. It is a form of keratosis, which is a skin disorder caused by over production of keratin. It occurs most often on skin that has been irritated, has pressure on it, or has rubbed against something. Less frequently, it will occur on skin that has not been irritated. This often occurs due to heredity if no irritation is seen. Hyperkeratosis often occurs on large portions of the skin. There are many forms of hyperkeratosis. These include warts, corns and calluses, chronic eczema, seborrheic keratosis, lichen planus, actinic keratosis, and other inherited conditions. There is a good prognosis for hyperkeratosis, however, do note that actinic keratosis can result in squamous cell skin cancer.