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Hyperkeratosis mainly affects the dermatological field, but it can also be correlated to systemic morbid events.
In some cases, this disorder is the expression of an adaptive response of the epidermis, through which the skin becomes more resistant to continuous and prolonged mechanical stresses over time (this happens, for example, in the case of so-called callosities or "calluses" ). In practice, it is a defense mechanism that the body uses to protect the skin surface.
Other times, hyperkeratosis is the expression of local or systemic pathological processes, such as inflammation, infections (eg papilloma virus), chronic exposure to ultraviolet rays and metabolism.
The treatment of hyperkeratosis varies according to the underlying disease, but usually makes use of the use of ointments, pastes or keratolytic solutions, which have the ability to remove and soften the thickened portions of skin.