Etymed
dermatosclerosis
Definition
A pathological condition characterized by the hardening and thickening of the skin due to excessive fibrous tissue formation
Clinical context
A 65-year-old diabetic patient presents with thickened, hardened skin on the lower extremities that feels like leather to touch. The lesions are non-tender but limit joint mobility. History reveals long-standing poorly controlled blood sugar levels. Physical examination shows waxy, inelastic skin with reduced elasticity.
Mnemonic
DERMATOSCLEROSIS = DERMIS hardening with excessive fibrous tissue formation