Keratolytic winter erythema
Overview
A rare inherited skin disorder involving patches of red and thickened skin on the palms and soles which tend to peel in cold weather
Symptoms
* Intermittent redness on palms * Recurrent redness on palms * Peeling skin on palms * Intermittent redness on soles * Recurrent redness on soles * Peeling skin on soles * Peeling skin on palms
Diagnosis
Begin the history by asking how long the patient has had scaly skin and whether he has had it before. Where did it first appear? Did a lesion or skin eruption, such as erythema, precede it? Has the patient used a new or different topical skin product recently? How often does he bathe? Has he had recent joint pain, illness, or malaise? Ask the patient about work exposure to chemicals, use of prescribed drugs, and a family history of skin disorders. Find out what kinds of soap, cosmetics, skin lotion, and hair preparations he uses. Next, examine the entire skin surface. Is it dry, oily, moist, or greasy? Observe the general pattern of skin lesions, and record their location. Note their color, shape, and size. Are they thick or fine? Do they itch? Does the patient have other lesions besides scaly skin? Examine the mucous membranes of his mouth, lips, and nose, and inspect his ears, hair, and nails.
Prognosis
The 'prognosis' of Keratolytic winter erythema usually refers to the likely outcome of Keratolytic winter erythema. The prognosis of Keratolytic winter erythema may include the duration of Keratolytic winter erythema, chances of complications of Keratolytic winter erythema, probable outcomes, prospects for recovery, recovery period for Keratolytic winter erythema, survival rates, death rates, and other outcome possibilities in the overall prognosis of Keratolytic winter erythema. Naturally, such forecast issues are by their nature unpredictable.
Treatment
Teach the patient proper skin care, and suggest lubricating baths and emollients. Instruct him not to use hot water to bathe or shower.