Keratolysis exfoliativa
Encyclopedia
Keratolysis exfoliativa, (also known as "Lamellar dyshidrosis,", "Recurrent focal palmar peeling," "Recurrent palmar peeling") is a harmless condition of the skin
. Although this particular condition is asymptomatic, it is often misdiagnosed as chronic contact dermatitis
or psoriasis
. It is primarily located on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It is characterized by dry skin and superficial, air-filled blisters. These blisters can be peeled off very easily and will leave reddish, tender areas. The loss of this horny layer
of the skin, which protects the underlying layers, leaves the skin more vulnerable to dryness and cracking of the skin.
Another very common cause has been reported from salt water fishermen, who often suffer from these symptoms. It is not sure whether it is from the salt water or whether it is from some bacteria from fish.
and lactic acid
are also helpful. In severe cases, photochemotherapy is an option.treatment consists of 3% salicylic acid and or 5% tar application.
Skin
-Dermis:The dermis is the layer of skin beneath the epidermis that consists of connective tissue and cushions the body from stress and strain. The dermis is tightly connected to the epidermis by a basement membrane. It also harbors many Mechanoreceptors that provide the sense of touch and heat...
. Although this particular condition is asymptomatic, it is often misdiagnosed as chronic contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a term for a skin reaction resulting from exposure to allergens or irritants . Phototoxic dermatitis occurs when the allergen or irritant is activated by sunlight....
or psoriasis
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that appears on the skin. It occurs when the immune system mistakes the skin cells as a pathogen, and sends out faulty signals that speed up the growth cycle of skin cells. Psoriasis is not contagious. However, psoriasis has been linked to an increased risk of...
. It is primarily located on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It is characterized by dry skin and superficial, air-filled blisters. These blisters can be peeled off very easily and will leave reddish, tender areas. The loss of this horny layer
Stratum corneum
The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis, consisting of dead cells that lack nuclei and organelles. The purpose of the stratum corneum is to form a barrier to protect underlying tissue from infection, dehydration, chemicals and mechanical stress...
of the skin, which protects the underlying layers, leaves the skin more vulnerable to dryness and cracking of the skin.
Causes
Keratolysis exfoliativa normally appears during warm weather. Due to excessive sweating and friction, in for example athletic shoes, the skin can start to exfoliate. Other factors that can cause exfoliation are detergents and solvents.Another very common cause has been reported from salt water fishermen, who often suffer from these symptoms. It is not sure whether it is from the salt water or whether it is from some bacteria from fish.
Treatment
Normally, exfoliation halts is restricted to a particular area and normal skin will replace the exfoliated parts, so no treatment is needed. Since keratolysis exfoliativa is caused by friction, detergents, and solvents, these factors should be avoided. Creams, especially those with siliconeSilicone
Silicones are inert, synthetic compounds with a variety of forms and uses. Typically heat-resistant and rubber-like, they are used in sealants, adhesives, lubricants, medical applications , cookware, and insulation....
and lactic acid
Lactic acid
Lactic acid, also known as milk acid, is a chemical compound that plays a role in various biochemical processes and was first isolated in 1780 by the Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele. Lactic acid is a carboxylic acid with the chemical formula C3H6O3...
are also helpful. In severe cases, photochemotherapy is an option.treatment consists of 3% salicylic acid and or 5% tar application.