Focal palmoplantar and gingival keratosis

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD medical weight loss NYC and sleep center NYC

Focal palmoplantar and gingival keratosis
Synonyms	Palmoplantar keratoderma with oral leukokeratosis
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	Dermatology
Symptoms	Thickening of the skin on palms and soles, white patches on gums
Complications	N/A
Onset	Childhood
Duration	Lifelong
Types	N/A
Causes	Genetic mutation
Risks	Family history
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, genetic testing
Differential diagnosis	Pachyonychia congenita, Howel-Evans syndrome
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Keratolytic agents, retinoids
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Generally good with treatment
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Focal Palmoplantar and Gingival Keratosis

Focal Palmoplantar and Gingival Keratosis is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the development of thickened skin on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and the gingiva (gums). This condition is part of a group of disorders known as keratodermas, which involve abnormal keratinization of the skin.

Clinical Features

Individuals with focal palmoplantar and gingival keratosis typically present with:

• Palmoplantar Keratosis: Thickening of the skin on the palms and soles, which may lead to painful fissures and difficulty in walking or using the hands.
• Gingival Keratosis: Thickening of the gingival tissue, which can cause discomfort and may affect oral hygiene.

The severity of symptoms can vary among affected individuals, and the onset of symptoms usually occurs in childhood or early adulthood.

Genetics

Focal palmoplantar and gingival keratosis is often inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, meaning a single copy of the altered gene in each cell is sufficient to cause the disorder. Mutations in specific genes responsible for keratin production and regulation are typically involved.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of this condition is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic appearance of the skin and gums. Genetic testing can confirm the diagnosis by identifying mutations in the associated genes.

Management

Management of focal palmoplantar and gingival keratosis focuses on alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life. Treatment options may include:

• Keratolytic Agents: Topical treatments that help to soften and remove the thickened skin.
• Emollients: Moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated and reduce cracking.
• Oral Retinoids: Medications that can help to reduce keratin production and improve skin texture.

Regular dental care is important to manage gingival symptoms and prevent complications.

Related Conditions

Focal palmoplantar and gingival keratosis is related to other forms of keratoderma, such as:

• Palmoplantar keratoderma
• Hereditary gingival fibromatosis
• Epidermolytic hyperkeratosis

See Also

• Keratinization disorders
• Genodermatoses
• Autosomal dominant disorders

See also

• List of cutaneous conditions
• List of genetic disorders