XBOX HYPERTROPHY
The inconsistent geometry of hands affected by the psychopathology of gaming. Onset of symptoms generally occurs in adolescence or early adulthood. Swollen extremities, the visible manifestation of an abnormal increase in the volume of tissue due to the enlargement of its component cells. Movements divorced from affect and physiology alike. Muscle strains caused by forceful movements. A new body configuration produced by repetitive strain injury. Xbox Hypertrophy is a destructive form of arthritis which destroys the small joints in the hands and can lead to permanent disability and loss of hand function. Often confused with Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), a condition in which the affected person is excessively concerned about and preoccupied by a perceived defect in his or her physical features, Xbox Hypertrophy is a certified pathology that causes both physical and psychological distress that impairs occupational and/or social functioning, sometimes to the point of severe depression and anxiety, development of other anxiety disorders, social withdrawal or complete social isolation. It is estimated that 3–5% of the world’s population meet all the diagnostic criteria for Xbox Hypertrophy. Widespread in the United States and in the United Kingdom, this pathology is rarer in Japan.
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11 Although the development of subcorneal haematoma is usually seen in athletes following intensive sporting activity where there are repetitive frictional forces on the skin of the hands and feet, our patient illustrates a novel 21st century recreational hazard. Only after direct questioning did he admit to spending several hours per day playing video games.
Robertson S.J.; Leonard J.; Chamberalin A. J. (2010), “PlayStation® purpura”, Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 51, Issue 3, pages 220–222
12 The case of an 18-year-old college student who had been playing video games 3-4 hours a day at an average cost of $5 a day over five-mont period is reported.
Griffiths MD., 1997, “Video games and clinical practice : Issues, uses and treatments”, British Journal of Clinical Psychology, vol. 36, pages 639-641.
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