Dry, Coarse Skin
Type: Symptom
Definition
Skin that lacks moisture, becoming rough, flaky, and prone to cracking.
Clinical Details
The decreased metabolic rate severely impairs skin turnover and reduces the activity of sweat and sebaceous (oil) glands. The lack of natural oils and poor circulation to the epidermal layers causes the skin to lose hydration rapidly. Patients develop distinctly dry, rough, and pale skin, particularly on the elbows and knees.