Palmoplantar Keratoderma

Palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK) is a group of skin conditions characterized by thickening of the skin on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. PPK can also be a feature of various underlying syndromes. In rare forms of PPK, organs other than the skin may also be affected. PPK can be either acquired during the lifetime (more commonly) or inherited. Acquired PPKs may arise due to changes in a person's health or environment. Inherited PPKs are caused by genetic mutations that result in abnormalities of keratin, a skin protein. Depending on the genetic cause, inheritance can be autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive. Treatment is aimed at softening the thickened skin to make it less noticeable and relieve discomfort.