Skin atrophy (elastosis) is a group of chronic dermatological diseases that are accompanied by thinning of the skin. The disease is based on partial or complete destruction of collagen fibers, the main component of the connective tissue from which the skin is formed. The disease received its second name due to the fact that the elasticity of the skin is primarily impaired. The origin and origin of pathology, clinical picture, diagnosis and treatment, prognosis and prevention depend on the type of pathology.
Features of skin atrophy
Elastosis is a loss of elasticity and thinning of the skin, which develops due to trophic, inflammatory, metabolic, age-related changes in all layers of the dermis. As a result, connective tissue degenerates - the number of elastic and collagen fibers decreases. Various forms of skin atrophy have been described by scientists at different times as symptoms of somatic diseases. For example, elastosis as a sign of progeria was mentioned in 1904 by the German doctor O. Werner, and in children, skin atrophy as a sign of premature aging was first described in 1886 by the Englishman D. Getchins. The causes of the pathology are still unknown, the diagnosis is made on the basis of the clinical picture, treatment is required because, along with aesthetic problems, the disease threatens health and life - it can degenerate into cancer.
Skin atrophy is a sign of the following diseases:
- Atrophic scars.
- Atrophic nevus.
- Atrophoderma Pasini-Pierini.
- Connective tissue diseases.
- Generalized thinning of the skin caused by aging, ingestion or increased production of glucocorticoids by the adrenal glands.
- Focal panatrophy and hemiatrophy of the face.
- Poikiloderma.
- Patchy skin atrophy.
- Aging.
- Follicular atrophoderma.
- Chronic.
- Vermiform atrophoderma.
The most common skin atrophy is:
- Associated with the use of glucocorticoids. Long-term use of ointments containing corticosteroids changes the properties of the skin. In most cases, changes are local in nature. The thing is that glucocorticosteroids slow down the synthesis of collagen protein and some other substances that provide skin elasticity. The skin becomes covered with small folds, similar to tissue paper. The skin is easily injured, becomes translucent, bluish, and a network of small vessels is visible. In some cases, hemorrhages and scars in the shape of stars or stripes appear in atrophied areas. They can be deep or superficial, limited or diffuse. If diagnosed early, this type of atrophy can be cured.
- Senile. Age-related changes in the properties of the epidermis, caused by a decrease in metabolic activity, in which the skin adapts less well to external influences and internal factors. It is most strongly affected by hormonal imbalance, unhealthy diet, nervous overload, rain, wind, sun. Most often, the pathology develops in people over 70 years of age; if the same signs are found in patients under 50 years of age, premature aging is diagnosed. Dermatitis is especially noticeable on the face, neck and back of the hands. The skin gathers in folds, becomes pale, acquires a gray tint, is easily injured and peels off.
- Spotted. Causes: stress, hormonal imbalances, infections. Elastic fibers disintegrate under the influence of the enzyme elastase, released from the site of inflammation. The risk group includes residents of Central Europe aged 20-40 years. There are three types of patchy skin atrophy - Jadassohn (classical), Schwenninger-Buzzi Pellisari (urticarial).
- Idiopathic progressive (Pick's erythromyelia, acrodermatitis chronica atrophica). Most likely it has an infectious etiology and develops in later stages. Microorganisms that cause atrophic changes can remain in the body for many years.
- Poikiloderma. A group of diseases that are accompanied by reticular (spotty) pigmentation, pinpoint hemorrhages, atrophy and telangiectasia (formation of spider veins on the surface of the skin). It can be congenital or acquired. Congenital develops in the first year of life. Acquired is provoked by lymphoma, systemic lupus erythematosus, lichen planus, scleroderma, exposure to radiation, low or high temperatures.
- Rothmund-Thomson syndrome. The disease is inherited, more often to female children. The cause is a gene mutation on the eighth chromosome. It appears no earlier than two years after birth. Hyperpigmentation, depigmentation, spider veins and areas of atrophy are localized on the neck, arms, legs and buttocks. Problems with hair, nails, and teeth appear. In 40% of sick children under the age of 7 years, bilateral cataracts are diagnosed. The disease is chronic and remains for life.
You can see what skin atrophy looks like in the photos below.
Symptoms of skin atrophy
Skin atrophy is accompanied by signs characteristic of a particular form. However, all types have common features:
- Color change - from brown to whitish.
- Thinning to the state of tissue paper.
- Visibility through the skin of the vascular network, pinpoint hemorrhages, spider veins.
- Excessive dryness.
- Smoothed drawing.
- Decreased elasticity.
- Lethargy, flabbiness, failures.
- Folds and wrinkles on the affected areas.
Most often, elastosis is chronic in nature, periods of remission alternate with exacerbations - old lesions increase in size and new ones appear. Sometimes the skin heals on its own. 
Causes of skin atrophy
Skin atrophy can be caused by a decrease in the activity of metabolic processes in older people, cachexia, vitamin deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, inflammatory processes, and malfunctions of the nervous and circulatory systems.
The main causes of skin atrophy:
- Thinning of the skin (aging, rheumatic diseases, use of creams with glucocorticosteroids)
- Atrophic nevus.
- Pasini-Pierini atrophoderma.
- Atrophoderma vermiform.
- Hemiatrophy of the face.
- Focal panatrophy.
- Primary and secondary (after inflammatory diseases).
- Poikiloderma.
- Striae (atrophic scars).
- Follicular atrophoderma.
- Chronic atrophic acrodermatitis.
Atrophic changes in the skin are caused by long-term corticosteroid therapy; this side effect is especially common when treating children.
Skin atrophy in children
Skin atrophy in children most often develops when using corticosteroid creams (ointments), especially those containing fluoride - Fluorocort, Sinalara, etc., as well as potent ointments that are applied to the skin when applying occlusive dressings. Premature babies may develop spotted atrophy, its cause is imperfect physiological processes in the skin. There is also a congenital form, but signs of the disease appear only 2-3 years after birth.
Diagnosis of skin atrophy
Diagnosis of skin atrophy is based on the results of a survey and examination of the patient. To confirm or refute the diagnosis, the dermatologist prescribes a biopsy. Examination of the biopsy allows one to assess the degree of skin thinning, identify infiltration of the dermis, and detect degeneration of elastic and collagen fibers. 
Treatment of skin atrophy
The goal of treatment is to eliminate the cause of the disease and stop its development; complete recovery is almost impossible. The doctor recommends symptomatic medications and auxiliary physiotherapy procedures that stabilize processes in the body and slow down atrophy.
Treatment of skin atrophy is:
- Antifibrotic tablets.
- Vitamins.
- Moisturizing creams.
- Physiotherapeutic procedures – therapeutic baths, balneotherapy.
- Spa treatment.
If abscesses, ulcers, or neoplasms appear on the skin in the affected areas, consultation with a surgeon and oncologist is required. The surgeon opens the abscesses and prescribes antibiotics, and the oncologist checks the growths. In case of deep lesions, a transplant may be required; for this, healthy skin is taken from the buttocks or inner thighs.
Complications of skin atrophy
The disease is lifelong, but does not affect the quality of life. The exception is damage to the face, hands and scalp - cosmetic defects cause aesthetic discomfort.
Skin death can be caused by:
- Malignant tumors in damaged areas.
- Increased vulnerability of the skin.
- Uncontrolled spread throughout the body.
- Cosmetic defects - scars, baldness, nail damage.
Thin skin is easily damaged, and through wounds a dangerous infection can enter the body.
Prevention of skin atrophy
Prevention of skin atrophy requires prevention of diseases that can cause such pathology. To do this you need:
- Use corticosteroids under the supervision of a physician.
- Protect skin from prolonged exposure to sunlight, rain, and wind.
- In summer, use sunscreen and avoid staying in the sun for long periods of time.
- Eat properly.
- Use high-quality cosmetics.
- To live an active lifestyle.
- Stay outdoors as much as possible.
Skin atrophy cannot be treated, but it can be prevented. To do this, you should follow the above recommendations, undergo regular medical examinations, and if problems with the skin appear, immediately contact a dermatologist.
Skin atrophy occurs due to disruption of the structure and function of the connective skin and is clinically characterized by thinning of the epidermis and dermis. The skin becomes dry, transparent, wrinkled, tenderly folded, hair loss and telangiectasia are often observed.
Pathohistological changes in skin atrophy are manifested by thinning of the epidermis and dermis, a decrease in connective tissue elements (mainly elastic fibers) in the papillary and reticular layers of the dermis, dystrophic changes in the hair follicles, sweat and sebaceous glands.
Along with thinning of the skin, focal thickening may occur due to the proliferation of connective tissue (idiopathic progressive skin atrophy).
Atrophic processes in the skin can be associated with a decrease in metabolism during aging of the body (senile atrophy), with pathological processes caused by cachexia, vitamin deficiencies, hormonal disorders, circulatory disorders, neurotrophic and inflammatory changes.
Skin atrophy is accompanied by a violation of its structure and functional state, which manifests itself in a decrease in the number and volume of certain structures and a weakening or cessation of their functions. The process may involve the epidermis, dermis or subcutaneous tissue in isolation, or all structures simultaneously (skin panatrophy).
ICD-10 code
L57.4 Senile atrophy skin laxity
L90 Atrophic skin lesions
Epidemiology
Senile skin atrophy develops mainly after 50 years, the full clinical picture is formed by 70 years. The skin loses its elasticity, becomes sluggish, wrinkled, especially around the eyes and mouth, on the cheeks, in the area of the hands, on the neck, and easily gathers into folds that slowly straighten out. The natural color of the skin is lost, it becomes pale with a yellowish or slightly brownish tint. Frequent dyschromia and telangiectasia, dryness with fine scaling, increased sensitivity to cold, detergents and drying agents. Healing of wounds that easily appear even with minor injuries is slow. Greater severity of atrophic phenomena manifests itself in exposed parts of the body, due both to the anatomical features of these areas and to environmental influences, primarily the cumulative effect of sunlight. Elderly and elderly people have an increased tendency to develop various dermatoses and neoplasms (eczematous reactions, senile angiomas, senile adenomas of the sebaceous glands, actinic and seborrheic keratoses, basal cell carcinomas, Dubreuil's lentigo, senile purpura, etc.). A special variant of senile skin changes is colloid millum, characterized by multiple waxy translucent nodular elements on the face, neck, and hands.
Causes of skin atrophy
The main causes of skin atrophy are the following:
- Generalized thinning of the skin: aging; rheumatic diseases; glucocorticoids (endo- or exogenous).
- Poikiloderma.
- Atrophic scars (striae).
- Anetoderma: primary; secondary (after inflammatory diseases).
- Chronic atrophic acrodermatitis
- Follicular atrophoderma.
- Atrophoderma vermiform.
- Pasini-Pierini atrophoderma.
- Atrophic nevus.
- Panatrophy: focal; hemiatrophy of the face.
It is known that atrophic skin changes are one of the manifestations of side effects of corticosteroid therapy (general or local).
Local atrophy of the skin from corticosteroid ointments (creams) develops mainly in children and young women, usually with irrational, uncontrolled use, especially fluoride-containing (fluorocort, sinalar) or very strong ointments prescribed under an occlusive dressing.
The mechanism of action of atrophy under the influence of corticosteroid drugs is explained by a decrease (or suppression) of enzyme activity. involved in the biosynthesis of collagen, suppression of the effect of cyclic nucleotides on the production of collagenase, the synthetic activity of fibroblasts, as well as their effect on fibrous, vascular structures and the ground substance of connective tissue.
Pathogenesis
There is a thinning of the epidermis due to a decrease in the number of rows of the Malpighian layer and the size of each cell individually, smoothness of the epidermal outgrowths, thickening of the stratum corneum and insufficient expression of the granular layer, as well as an increase in the melanin content in the cells of the basal layer. Thinning of the dermis is accompanied by destructive and hyperplastic changes in fibrous structures, a decrease in the number of cellular elements, including tissue basophils, thickening of the walls of blood vessels and atrophy of hair follicles, as well as sweat glands. Collagen fibers are located parallel to the epidermis and become partially homogenized. The plastic fibers thicken and are closely adjacent to each other, especially in the subepidermal sections. They are often fragmented, look like lumps or spirals, and in some places they are felt-like (senile elastosis). Electron microscopy in senile skin revealed signs of a decrease in biosynthetic processes in epidermal cells. There is a decrease in organelles, clearing of mitochondria, a decrease in the number of cristae and their fragmentation, which indicates a decrease in energy metabolism in them. In the cytoplasm of basal epithelial cells, accumulation of fat droplets and lipofuscin granules was noted, as well as the appearance of myelin structures. In the epithediocytes of the upper sections of the spinous layer, lamellar granules are modified; there are signs of a high content of amorphous substance in them - a precursor of keratin. With age, changes in epithelial cells increase; in addition to atrophic ones, destructive changes appear, often leading to the death of some of them. Dystrophic changes and an increase in the number of microfibrils are also observed in collagen fibers, and a cytochemical study reveals qualitative changes in glycosaminoglycans (amorphous masses appear). Elastic fibers show lysis, vacuolization of their matrix, and a decrease in the number of young elastic forms. Vessels are characterized by thickening and loosening of the basement membranes, sometimes by their multilayered appearance.
With colloid millum, basophilic degeneration of collagen in the upper dermis is detected, colloid deposition, the nature of which is unclear. It is believed that its formation is a consequence of degenerative changes in connective tissue and the deposition of material of vascular origin around damaged fibers. It is believed that the colloid is mainly synthesized by fibroblasts activated under the influence of sunlight.
Histogenesis of skin atrophy
Atrophic and dystrophic changes in the skin during aging occur as a result of genetically determined changes in cells caused by decreased metabolism, weakened immune system, impaired microcirculation and neurohumoral regulation. It is assumed that 7 genes out of 70 that influence the aging process are particularly important. In the mechanisms of aging at the cellular level, membrane disruption is of critical importance. Of the exogenous influences, the most important are climatic factors, primarily intense insolation.
White skin atrophy is usually called a condition that is caused by specific damage to the capillaries and small vessels of the skin. The disease was first described by a dermatologist from France G. A. Milian, so the second name of the pathology was given in honor of the scientist.
White skin atrophy is a fairly rare disease that can develop against the background of vein diseases, for example, against the background.
Milian atrophy is considered a “female” disease; men make up only about 5% of patients with this diagnosis. White atrophy usually develops in middle age; cases of the disease in people under 30 years of age are extremely rare.
Reasons for development
To date, the causes and mechanisms of development of white skin atrophy have not been fully studied. Some researchers classify Milian atrophy as diseases based on ordinary vasculitis or any of its forms, for example. Inflammation of the walls of blood vessels leads to occlusion (compression) of small arteries, which causes disruption of microcirculation and nutrition of skin tissue.
There is an opinion that white atrophy should be classified as a group of hemorrhagic pigmentary dermatoses caused by varicose veins located on the legs. Changes in the veins cause compression of the capillaries, which leads to the development of areas of skin atrophy.
However, not all patients with Milian atrophy have a history of thrombophlebitis or varicose veins. The development of atrophy can also be observed against the background of hemodynamic disorders, which are associated with liver diseases, heart failure, and the development of tumors of various types. Cases have been described in which white atrophy developed during pregnancy and hemodynamic disturbances associated with this condition. Also, skin atrophy can occur when the skin’s nutritional processes are disrupted, for example, as a consequence.
Clinical picture
White atrophy manifests itself as the formation of small scars on the skin of an irregular or round shape, the color of white porcelain. Around the scars you can notice a thin halo of hyperpigmented skin.
Inflammatory phenomena in skin tissues are not observed with Milian atrophy. Patients do not experience subjective sensations either. The appearance and existence of spots does not cause pain, itching or other unpleasant phenomena.
The number of spots in Milian atrophy may vary. Scars can be located isolated, at a distance from each other. But in some patients, the spots merge, forming quite large lesions.
With white atrophy, petechiae and small ones can often be seen on the affected skin (spider veins).
In about a third of patients with white atrophy, irregularly shaped ulcers form against the background of the lesions. Ulcers are quite painful and extremely difficult to treat.
With Milian's atrophy, the skin of the legs is mainly affected, most often on the back of the foot, and is also noticed in the patient. Atrophy spots can appear either symmetrically (on both legs) or unilaterally.
With Milian atrophy, there are no disturbances in the blood coagulation system, and capillary resistance does not change.
Diagnostic methods
Diagnosis of white skin atrophy is based on studying the clinical manifestations of the disease and studying the medical history. In addition, a histological examination of material taken from the affected area may be prescribed.
The histological picture of Milian atrophy is as follows:
- Thinning of the epidermis;
- Complete disappearance of elastic fibers;
- Hyalinization (compaction) and homogenization of collagen fibers.
- Expansion of the passages of small vessels and thickening of their walls.
- Infiltration of the dermis.
It is important to distinguish white atrophy from diseases such as:
- Superficial allergic nature.
- Necrobiosis lipoidica.
- Itsenko-Cushing syndrome.
The main difference between superficial vasculitis and white atrophy is the polymorphism (multivariance) of the rash. With vasculitis, the rashes are represented by spots, nodules, bullous and hemorrhagic elements. In addition, rashes with vasculitis are more common; they are located not only on the limbs, but also on the torso.
The lesions are located closer to the upper part of the lower leg, and with white atrophy, the bulk of the lesions are located in the foot area. In addition, with necrobiosis lipoidica, the lesions are larger and rise above the skin.
Most patients with Ishchenko-Cushing syndrome are obese. In addition, the spots in this syndrome are usually purple or pink, and in Milian atrophy, the affected areas have white skin, sometimes with a pearlescent tint.
Treatment
Unfortunately, no effective treatment for white skin atrophy has been developed.
The atrophic changes that have occurred are irreversible, and it is impossible to return the skin to a healthy appearance. Therefore, treatment of this disease is aimed at improving microcirculation and preventing the formation of new lesions.
As a rule, patients with white atrophy are prescribed vitamins, angioprotectors, and immunostimulants. Recently, it has been common to use the combined use of curatyl and aspirin for a long time.
In the presence of varicose veins, specific treatment is prescribed aimed at restoring the veins - medication or surgery.
For white atrophy, external treatment is widely used, aimed at strengthening and increasing the elasticity of the walls of blood vessels. Ointments (for example, Troxevasin) and physiotherapeutic procedures are used.
With white atrophy, patients may be prescribed ultraviolet irradiation of the affected skin, mud applications, and sulfide baths. Spa treatment is useful.
For ulceration of lesions due to Milian atrophy, both local and systemic treatment is used. Local treatment consists of the use of antiseptic drugs, taking into account the nature and sensitivity of the discharge from the ulcer. In addition, ointments that have a regenerating effect are used. Systemic anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics are also used.
Treatment with traditional methods
Traditional medicine can provide significant assistance in the treatment of white atrophy. However, treatment with medications must be long-term and regular. In addition, having decided to use folk remedies, you cannot voluntarily cancel the treatment prescribed by your doctor.
When the first signs of white atrophy appear, you should start taking chestnut tincture. You can prepare it yourself by pouring 50 grams of carefully crushed fruits with 300 ml of alcohol. You need to infuse the product in a dark place for a week. The prepared infusion should be taken 10 drops three times a day.
Nutmeg tincture is prepared in the same way. You just need to take it 20 drops three times a day. The course of taking the tincture should continue until the end of the prepared portion. Next, it is recommended to take a break for a week and repeat the treatment again.
The spores of the club moss plant help well in the treatment of Milian atrophy. A decoction is prepared from this plant. Take a full spoonful of spores per glass of boiling water. Cook on very low heat for 20 minutes. Then rinse and drink in small portions throughout the day. You need to drink the infusion without straining along with plant materials.
For external treatment of white atrophy, wheat germ oil can be used. You need to slightly heat the oil and rub it well into the skin in the areas where the atrophy spots are located.
You can prepare healing oil for the treatment of Milian atrophy yourself. You need to take 50 ml of almond and peach oil, as well as dry herbs - yarrow, string, thyme, eucalyptus, birch buds. The raw materials are taken in equal parts and ground into powder. To prepare the medicine you will need a spoon of this mixture. The herbal powder is poured into a dark glass bowl and both types of oil are poured into it. Then you need to add a tablespoon of glycerin to the oil and shake well again. Lubricate the skin of the legs in the areas of white atrophy spots and allow the product to be absorbed.
Juniper baths for the treatment of Milian atrophy, as well as for the treatment. It is necessary to prepare a decoction of juniper berries. Take three-quarters of a glass of fruit per liter of water, boil the product on low heat for half an hour, and let it cool. Then filter and dilute with five liters of warm water. Used for forty-minute foot baths. During the procedure, you need to ensure that the areas of atrophy are immersed in the broth. It is very important that the water for the bath is not hot, it should be pleasantly warm - 36-37 degrees.
Prognosis and prevention
Prevention of the development of white atrophy consists of timely identification and proper treatment of chronic diseases - varicose veins, liver diseases, cardiovascular diseases, gynecological disorders, etc.
The prognosis for life with white atrophy is favorable, however, complete restoration of the skin with already formed areas of atrophy is impossible. It is important for patients with white atrophy to try to avoid any damage to the changed skin and hypothermia in order to prevent the development of complications in the form of ulcers.
A type of skin disease associated with a decrease in the number of epidermal cells is called skin atrophy or elastosis. External manifestations of the disease are observed in different age groups, including children. The physiological basis of the pathological process is the deactivation of cytoplasmic enzymes, resulting in collagen dissicimilation and thinning of the skin.
What is skin atrophy
The pathology of the skin, which is characterized by deformation of structure-forming elastic fibers and, as a result, a decrease in the volume of the epithelial layer, is skin atrophy. It can be caused by both natural causes and pathogenic malfunctions in the body. The atrophic process can affect either only the fibers of the epidermis (including the basal layer), or spread to the deeper tissues of the dermis.
Observations by dermatologists indicate a predisposition to elastosis in women, due to their susceptibility to hormonal changes during pregnancy. White stripes, so-called striae, appearing after childbirth are also a type of atrophy. The disease is not inherited, but failures at the genetic level can lead to congenital pathology.
Symptoms
Signs of the onset of the process of atrophy of the epidermis in a patient are easily detected at an early stage due to a noticeable change in the appearance and condition of the skin. The main symptoms that are hard to miss are:
- accelerated death of the skin, expressed in the form of peeling;
- the appearance of small bluish or pink spots of oval or round shape (as in the photo);
- In rare cases, the affected area may hurt;
- the appearance of folding, wrinkling;
- there is a decrease in the sensitivity of the affected area.
The child has
The pathological process of atrophy in a child manifests itself more often on the surface of the skin of the extremities and neck. At the first stage, the painful area begins to be red and rough. After a few days, spots or streaks become noticeable. They can be either below healthy skin or rise above it, having a hernia-like appearance. If the disease occurs in childhood, there is a high chance of reversing the atrophic process if timely measures are taken.
Causes of thinning skin
In addition to the natural physiological causes of atrophy, aging and pregnancy, there are a number of established catalysts that cause pathological degeneration of the skin:
- neuroendocrine disorders;
- poor diet;
- previous diseases (lupus erythematosus, typhus, tuberculosis, syphilis, psoriasis, etc.);
- taking hormone-containing drugs;
- fungal infections of the epidermis.
Hormonal ointments
Atrophy can occur as a side effect as a result of treating a patient with drugs containing corticosteroids. Thinning of the skin occurs due to the negative effect of substances contained in hormonal ointments, which manifests itself in the form of suppression of the activity of collagen production. Changes in the structure of connective tissue fibers are a consequence of irrational therapy with the uncontrolled use of potent drugs.
Classification
The first descriptions of skin atrophy in scientific works date back to the end of the 19th century. Since then, dermatologists have classified several types of this pathology. The initial principle of classification is the cause-and-effect sign according to which atrophy belongs to a physiological or pathological type. Thinning of the epithelium due to natural processes such as aging or pregnancy represents physiological atrophy.
Diseases of a pathological nature are classified based on the time of cell damage - before or after birth. The first type is congenital atrophy, the second is acquired. Each of these classes is divided into various forms depending on symptoms and causative factors. The etiology of some subspecies is currently unclear.
| Causes | External signs | Localization location | |
| Primary atrophy | Degenerative changes in the endocrine system | The appearance of stretch marks, spots | Abdomen, chest area, thighs |
| Secondary atrophy | Chronic diseases, exposure to solar or radiation energy | The appearance of damaged areas at the site of primary atrophy | Areas previously susceptible to atrophic manifestations |
| Diffuse atrophy | Damage to a large area of skin | All parts of the body can be affected, most often the arms and legs | |
| Limited atrophy | Malfunctions in the functioning of body systems, the etiology is not clear | Affected areas alternate with unchanged skin | Back, upper body |
| Disseminated atrophy | Sharp changes in hormonal levels, other changes | Sunken or herniated areas of skin | Can occur in any area of the body |
| Corticosteroid atrophy | Response to vasoconstrictor hormonal drugs | General thinning of the skin, appearance of spider veins | Over the entire surface of the body |
Why is skin atrophy dangerous?
External manifestations of the pathogenic process of atrophy violate the aesthetics of appearance, the skin begins to look flabby, but this is not what causes the greatest concern among doctors. The danger lies in the development of malignant neoplasms against the background of diseases accompanying elastosis. Foci of idiopathic atrophy can contribute to the appearance of pathologies of a lymphoproliferative nature (lymphocytoma, lymphosarcoma).
Detection of compactions in the affected areas should be a signal to take emergency measures, since the formation of scleroderma-like and fibrous nodes is often a symptom of the initial stage of cancer. If you go to the clinic at an early stage of the development of pathogenic tumors, there is a possibility of stopping the growth of cancer cells.
Diseases that occur with skin atrophy
Atrophic manifestations of skin diseases may indicate pathogenic processes occurring in the body, the symptoms of which have not yet appeared. Diseases accompanying or preceding elastosis include:
- Schwenninger-buzzi anetoderma;
- scleroderma;
- anetoderma;
- diabetes;
- lichen sclerosus;
- Pasini-Pierini atrophoderma;
- pyoderma;
- cutaneous tuberculosis;
- encephalitis;
- Cushing's syndrome;
- developmental defect.
Diagnostics
Diagnosing atrophy is not difficult, due to its obvious and specific external manifestation. A diagnostic problem may arise when determining the cause of tissue damage, without which it is impossible to prescribe adequate treatment to the patient. The detected symptoms of atrophic lesions in the patient are examined and classified by a dermatologist. The pathology research process includes ultrasound of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, study of the structure of hair and nails.
Treatment
The science of dermatovenerology, which studies the structure and function of the skin, currently does not have experimental evidence of the effectiveness of treating the atrophic process. Elastosis is irreversible, so doctors’ recommendations boil down to general health-improving preventive measures aimed at preventing the progression of the disease. Patients are prescribed penicillin, supporting a course of vitamin therapy and drugs that normalize cellular metabolism. In the case of a hormonal form of the disease, it is necessary to exclude the catalyzing factor.
External manifestations of atrophy can only be eliminated surgically, if the lesion has not spread to the lower layers of subcutaneous tissue. Oils based on plant extracts and emollient ointments have a supporting effect. Paraffin therapy and mud baths can be used for effective but temporary cosmetic camouflage of atrophied skin.
With age, the condition of the skin of the face and body deteriorates, which leads to the appearance of visual signs of aging. But it is quite possible to significantly slow down the rate of withering and thinning of the skin, reduce the number of wrinkles and, as a result, maintain a youthful appearance for many years.
Causes of accelerated aging and thinning of skin
First of all, it is necessary to eliminate or minimize the negative effects of harmful factors on the skin, which include:
- excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages, coffee and tea;
- smoking;
- excessive ultraviolet radiation;
- consumption of products containing large amounts of preservatives and other substances of chemical origin;
- exposure to dust, polluted air, lack of oxygen and moisture;
- excessive gesticulation, habit of grimacing or frowning.
Ways to prevent skin thinning and aging
At any age, you can maintain a healthy and attractive appearance of the skin of your face and body if you pay sufficient attention to care and eliminate the effects of the main causes of its premature aging. In this case, even existing age wrinkles will only emphasize well-groomed facial features.
Measures to effectively protect the skin from premature thinning:
- consume as little processed food as possible, preferring raw fruits and vegetables;
- Minimize the amount of sugar in your daily diet. Excessive indulgence in sweets is very harmful to the skin. Glucose molecules begin to interact with fats and proteins, thereby disrupting the structure of skin tissue, in particular collagen. An excess of sweets reduces the ability of collagen to participate in the renewal of skin cells, which leads to thinning and the formation of wrinkles. In addition, due to the abuse of confectionery products, the pores on the face expand, inflammatory processes occur, which leads to the formation of acne;
- drink enough water. Lack of fluid leads to loss of moisture from skin cells and, as a consequence, to premature aging. Various drinks are not suitable for this purpose; you must drink pure water, no earlier than 1.5 hours after a meal and no later than 15 minutes before the start of a meal;
- saturate the skin with moisture from the outside. For this purpose, it is necessary to periodically wash your face with clean cool water and regularly use moisturizing cosmetics. During the hot season, it is advisable to periodically spray your facial skin with water or a special micellar liquid from a spray bottle and allow the skin to dry on its own, only slightly removing excess moisture with a clean cosmetic napkin;
- reducing exposure to solar radiation. When in the sun, be sure to protect your face with a hat or use sunscreen with an appropriate UV protection factor. As a result of prolonged exposure to sunlight, the skin becomes thinner and dries out over time, and the pigmentation process is disrupted. Prolonged exposure to the sun can be especially dangerous for people with a large number of moles;
- Staying in the frosty winter air also contributes to the deterioration of facial skin. As a result of prolonged exposure to cold, the capillaries in the superficial subcutaneous layer are damaged, and the face becomes covered with a network of fine wrinkles. To protect against low temperatures, be sure to cover your face as much as possible, leaving only areas of the body necessary for breathing exposed;
- special facial gymnastics significantly contributes to increasing the tone and elasticity of the skin and maintains its structure and elasticity. Before you begin performing special exercises, you need to carefully familiarize yourself with the effect of certain movements of the facial muscles on the skin; otherwise, you can only worsen the appearance of your face;
- massage or self-massage helps relax the muscles of the skin, improves microcirculation in its upper layer and allows you to get rid of excess muscle tension that occurs under the influence of various emotions;
- Activities aimed at relaxing the whole body (auto-training, meditation, yoga) also contribute to deep relaxation and restoration of skin cells by relieving excess muscle tension and eliminating the negative influence of negative emotions.
In case of excessive dryness and thinning of the skin, it is also recommended to use homemade nourishing masks based on sour cream, olive oil, egg white, honey or avocado oil.
If you wish, you can visit a cosmetologist to receive professional advice and an individual selection of caring and restorative products, as well as to undergo a course of special hardware procedures.
As a result of comprehensive implementation of the above measures, it is quite possible to prolong the youth of the skin for a long time and prevent the premature appearance of signs of aging.
Pathohistological changes in skin atrophy are manifested by thinning of the epidermis and dermis, a decrease in connective tissue elements (mainly elastic fibers) in the papillary and reticular layers of the dermis, dystrophic changes in the hair follicles, sweat and sebaceous glands.
Along with thinning of the skin, focal thickening may occur due to the proliferation of connective tissue (idiopathic progressive skin atrophy).
Atrophic processes in the skin may be associated with a decrease in metabolism during aging of the body (senile atrophy), with pathological processes caused by
- cachexia;
- avitaminosis;
- hormonal disorders;
- circulatory disorders;
- neurotrophic and inflammatory changes.
Skin atrophy is accompanied by a violation of its structure and functional state, which manifests itself in a decrease in the number and volume of certain structures and a weakening or cessation of their functions. The process may involve the epidermis, dermis or subcutaneous tissue in isolation, or all structures simultaneously (skin panatrophy).
In addition, thin skin can be a symptom of the following diseases:
Questions and answers on the topic “Thin skin”
| I have very thin skin on my hands (not my hands, but the area from the hand to the elbow), which, when it comes into contact with something hard, immediately rubs off (abrasions and wounds form) or bruises appear that do not go away for a long time. All this causes discomfort and the wounds bleed. How to deal with this and which doctor should I contact? |
| Hello! You need to be examined by an endocrinologist, check your blood for sugar, and also contact a vascular surgeon. |
| The skin on my face is too thin and sensitive. You can see all the wreaths, blood vessels, various redness and some different complexion all the time. And when there are situations when I have to cry, my eyes become very swollen and my whole face is covered with large red spots that last for a day. It's horrible. Please tell me what should I do? What foundations and face correctors (or other means) can be used to achieve an ideal, even complexion? Thank you in advance. |
| Thin, sensitive skin requires special care. First of all, you need to use special cosmetics for sensitive skin, and you should also avoid the use of hormonal creams and ointments. To improve the structure of the skin, it is recommended to carry out a biorevitalization procedure. You need to consult a dermatocosmetologist to discuss a course of procedures taking into account your individual characteristics. |
| I have thin facial skin, capillaries on my cheeks are visible. How should I take care of my skin so as not to cause even more damage? And is it worth undergoing treatment? What thin skin care products can you choose? |