CUTANEOUS HORN Meaning and
Definition
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A cutaneous horn is a protrusion that emerges from the surface of the skin, resembling a cone or horn-like structure. It is formed by the overgrowth of keratin, a tough protein that exists in the outermost layer of the skin. The term "cutaneous" pertains to the skin, emphasizing that the horn originates from this area. Cutaneous horns can vary in size, color, and shape, ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters in length. They can be straight, curved, twisted, or spiraled, giving them a distinctive appearance.
Cutaneous horns predominantly occur in older individuals, often from age 60 onwards, but can be found in people of all age groups. While they can develop on any part of the body, the most common locations are the face, scalp, ears, and hands. The exact cause of cutaneous horn formation is not fully understood, but it is believed to be associated with various underlying skin conditions or injuries, such as viral infections, exposure to sunlight, chronic inflammation, or skin cancer.
Typically, cutaneous horns are painless and do not cause any discomfort. However, it is essential to seek medical evaluation and treatment as they can be a sign of an underlying, potentially malignant, skin condition. Dermatologists typically diagnose cutaneous horns by visual examination and may perform a biopsy to determine the nature of the underlying condition. Treatment options include surgical removal, cryotherapy (freezing), electrocautery (burning with electric current), or laser ablation. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor for any recurrence or malignant transformation.
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Cornu cutaneum, a hornlike outgrowth from the epidermis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CUTANEOUS HORN
- xutaneous horn
- vutaneous horn
- futaneous horn
- dutaneous horn
- cytaneous horn
- chtaneous horn
- cjtaneous horn
- citaneous horn
- c8taneous horn
- c7taneous horn
- curaneous horn
- cufaneous horn
- cuganeous horn
- cuyaneous horn
- cu6aneous horn
- cu5aneous horn
- cutzneous horn
- cutsneous horn
- cutwneous horn
- cutqneous horn
Etymology of CUTANEOUS HORN
The word "cutaneous horn" originates from Latin and combines two terms:
1. "Cutaneous": It comes from the Latin word "cutis", which means "skin". It refers to anything related to or pertaining to the skin.
2. "Horn": It derives from the Old English word "horn" and relates to the hard, pointed, and often curved projection found on the head of certain animals, like a deer or a rhinoceros.
So, when combined, "cutaneous horn" refers to a horn-like growth that appears on the skin.
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