Sust. FEM. 1. «Benign» abnormal growth of the spiny appearance of the skin cell layer. 2 Disease of the corneal layer of the skin. 3 Pigmentation dermal abnormal, with papillary tumors. 4. Plant pathology characterized by excessive production of spines. Etymology: from the Greek noun 'ákantha, ákanthees': spine, and the ending "osis": status, morbid State, physiological imbalance.