Face of a man with myxoedema. Myxedema or myxoedema is a term used synonymously with severe hypothyroidism; however, the term is also used to describe a dermatological change that can occur in hypothyroidism and some forms of hyperthyroidism. In this context, myxedema refers to deposition of mucopolysaccharides in the dermis, which results in swelling of the affected area. Caption with image, from 1886: "The face presents the stolid appearance which is characteristic of the disease. The hair of the head is thin and scanty, whilst the skin of the forehead is thickened and of a yellowish hue. The eyebrows are very arched. The eyelashes are thin, and the eyelids are puffy, transversely wrinkled and pearly in aspect. The root of the nose is broad and thick. The alae nasi are thick and fixed. The lips are thick and of a purplish hue. The tongue was broad and thick, the gums thickened and lobulated. The teeth were loose, the thyroid not perceptible."