Dermatolysis (Synonym: Cutis Pendula.)
Give a descriptive definition of dermatolysis.
Dermatolysis is a rare disease, consisting of hypertrophy and looseness of the skin and subcutaneous connective tissue, with a tendency to hang in folds.
Describe the symptoms and course of dermatolysis.
It may be congenital or acquired, and maybe limited to a small or large area, or develop simultaneously at several regions. All parts of the skin, including the follicles, glands and subcutaneous connective and areolar tissue, share in the hypertrophy; and this in exceptional instances may be so extensive that the integument hangs in folds. The enlargement of the follicles, natural folds and rugæ gives rise to an uneven surface, but the skin remains soft and pliable. There is also increased pigmentation, the integument becoming more or less brownish.
What course does dermatolysis pursue?
Its development is slow and usually progressive. It gives rise to no further inconvenience than its weight and consequent discomfort.
Give the etiology.
The etiology is obscure. It is considered by some authors as allied to molluscum fibrosum, and, in fact, as a manifestation of that disease, ordinary molluscum tumors sometimes being associated with it. It is not malignant.
What is the pathology?
The disease consists of a simple hypertrophy of all the skin structures and the subcutaneous connective tissue.
What is the treatment of dermatolysis?
Excision when advisable and practicable.