What is hippocratic face?

Hippocratic face, also known as Hippocratic facies or facies hippocratica, is a medical term used to describe a characteristic appearance of a person's face when they are experiencing a severe illness or nearing death. It is named after the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, who first documented its occurrence.

The features of a Hippocratic face include a sunken appearance around the eyes due to the loss of soft tissue, hollow cheeks, a pinched nose, and prominent cheekbones. The skin may appear pale or yellowish, and the lips may be dry and cracked.

Hippocratic face is often a sign of serious illness, such as terminal cancer, advanced pulmonary disease, or sepsis. It can also be seen in individuals who are severely malnourished or dehydrated. The appearance of Hippocratic face indicates that the body's vital organs are failing, and death may be imminent.

Doctors and healthcare professionals recognize the significance of Hippocratic face as a warning sign for patients who are gravely ill. It is an important indicator that special care should be taken to monitor the patient's condition and provide appropriate treatment and palliative care.