Which condition is characterized by excessive dryness and flaking of the skin?

Which condition is characterized by excessive dryness and flaking of the skin?

• A. Seborrhea
• B. Scabies
• C. Xerosis
• D. Dermatitis

Answer: (C)

The condition characterized by excessive dryness and flaking of the skin is xerosis. This term is used to describe abnormally dry skin, which can result from various factors such as environmental conditions, dehydration, or underlying health issues. Symptoms of xerosis typically include rough texture, peeling, and itchiness, leading to discomfort for the affected individual. In contrast, seborrhea usually presents as oily, flaky skin, often associated with conditions like dandruff. Scabies is a skin infestation caused by mites, leading to itchy rashes and inflammation rather than dryness. Dermatitis is a broader term for skin inflammation that can occur due to various triggers, including irritants or allergens; it often presents with redness, swelling, and can be dry, but it is characterized more by the inflammatory response rather than simply dryness and flaking. Therefore, the key features of xerosis align precisely with the excessive dryness and flaking specified in the question.

The condition characterized by excessive dryness and flaking of the skin is xerosis. This term is used to describe abnormally dry skin, which can result from various factors such as environmental conditions, dehydration, or underlying health issues. Symptoms of xerosis typically include rough texture, peeling, and itchiness, leading to discomfort for the affected individual.

In contrast, seborrhea usually presents as oily, flaky skin, often associated with conditions like dandruff. Scabies is a skin infestation caused by mites, leading to itchy rashes and inflammation rather than dryness. Dermatitis is a broader term for skin inflammation that can occur due to various triggers, including irritants or allergens; it often presents with redness, swelling, and can be dry, but it is characterized more by the inflammatory response rather than simply dryness and flaking. Therefore, the key features of xerosis align precisely with the excessive dryness and flaking specified in the question.