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Home » Topics A–Z » Palmoplantar keratoderma
Author: Dr Amy Stanway, Dermatology Registrar, Nottingham, United Kingdom, 2005.
‘Keratoderma’ is a term that means marked thickening of the epidermis of the skin.
‘Palmoplantar’ refers to the skin on the soles of the feet and palms of the hands; these are the areas keratoderma affects most often. Palmoplantar keratoderma is also sometimes known as ‘keratosis palmaris et plantaris’.
Classification of keratodermas depends on whether it is inherited or acquired, and the clinical features.
In some rare syndromic forms of keratoderma other organs in the body may be affected in addition to the skin, and the keratoderma can be a marker of this internal abnormality.
Palmoplantar keratoderma
Keratoderma may be inherited (hereditary) or, more commonly, acquired.
The hereditary keratodermas are caused by a gene abnormality that results in abnormal skin protein (keratin). They may be inherited either by an autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive pattern.
The table below lists the main types of hereditary palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK).
Diffuse hereditary palmoplantar keratodermas
Focal hereditary palmoplantar keratodermas
Punctate palmoplantar keratodermas
Acquired palmoplantar keratodermas may be focal or diffuse. They may arise in association with a variety of different skin and internal conditions.
The following treatments soften the thickened skin and makes it less noticeable.
See smartphone apps to check your skin.
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