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Acquired keratoderma
What are acquired keratodermas?
Acquired keratoderma are keratodermas that are NOT inherited as a primary genetic condition. They may occur as part of a generalised skin condition (some of which may be inherited) or as a result of another illness.
How do they present?
Acquired palmoplantar keratoderma is more likely to present in adulthood (compared with inherited keratodermas which usually present in childhood). It presents with thickening of the skin of the palms and/or soles which may be diffuse (involving most of the palms and soles) or focal (localised mainly to pressure areas).
Psoriasis |
Psoriasis |
Psoriasis |
Chronic eczema |
Chronic eczema |
Focal keratoderma |
What causes acquired keratoderma?
Some of the causes of acquired keratoderma are shown in the table below.
| Inflammatory skin conditions |
|
| Infections |
|
| Circulatory problems | |
| Secondary to inherited conditions that may not usually result in keratoderma |
|
| Medications and toxins |
|
| Internal illness |
|
| Miscellaneous |
|
Treatment of acquired keratoderma
The following treatments soften the thickened skin and make them less noticeable.
- Emollients
- Keratolytics (e.g. 6% salicylic acid in 70% propylene glycol)
- Topical retinoids
- Topical vitamin D ointment (calcipotriol)
- Systemic retinoids (acitretin)
Related information
References:
On DermNet NZ:
- Palmoplantar keratoderma (introduction)
- Diffuse hereditary palmoplantar keratoderma
- Hereditary focal palmoplantar keratoderma
- Punctate keratoderma
- Cracked heels
Other websites:
- Keratosis Palmaris et Plantaris – emedicine dermatology, the online textbook
Books about skin diseases:
See the DermNet NZ bookstore