Xerosis

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

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

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