Cryotherapy
Pronunciation: KRY-oh-ther-ah-pee
The therapeutic application of extreme cold, typically liquid nitrogen, to destroy abnormal or unwanted skin lesions.
Full Definition
In dermatology, cryotherapy most commonly refers to the application of liquid nitrogen (−196 °C) to cutaneous lesions such as actinic keratoses, warts, seborrhoeic keratoses, and superficial basal cell carcinomas. The freeze–thaw cycle induces intracellular ice crystal formation, membrane disruption, and localised tissue necrosis. Editors should note that 'cryotherapy' is the preferred clinical term; 'cryosurgery' is used specifically when the procedure involves a surgical intent and may be treated as a distinct term by some style guides. In patient-facing documents, the term should be explained on first use.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish 'cryotherapy' (broad term) from 'cryosurgery' (specific surgical intent). Confirm house style, as some publishers treat these as synonymous while others do not.
In Context
- "Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen was performed using a double freeze–thaw cycle for each actinic keratosis." — Procedural treatment note
- "The consent form described cryotherapy as 'cold treatment,' which the editor flagged for clinical accuracy." — Patient information leaflet review