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Pitted keratolysis
Pitted keratolysis


Pityriasis rubra pilaris on the chest
Pityriasis rubra pilaris on the chest


Pityriasis rubra pilaris on the feet
Pityriasis rubra pilaris on the feet


Pityriasis rubra pilaris on the palms
Pityriasis rubra pilaris on the palms


Pityriasis rubra pilaris - close-up
Pityriasis rubra pilaris - close-up


Definition:

Pityriasis rubra pilaris is a skin disorder that causes constant inflammation and scaling (exfoliation) of the skin.



Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

There are many different types of pityriasis rubra pilaris. The cause is unknown, although genetic factors may play a role.



Symptoms:

Pityriasis rubra pilaris is a chronic skin condition in which pink, scaly patches and thick skin develop on the hands and feet.

The pink scaly areas cover much of the body. Small "islands" of normal skin are seen within the areas of pink, scaly skin.



Signs and tests:



Treatment:

Topical creams containing urea or lactic acid may help. More commonly, treatment includes pills taken by mouth such as isotretinoin, acitretin, or methotrexate.



Support Groups:



Expectations (prognosis):



Complications:



Calling your health care provider:



Prevention:




Review Date: 4/10/2009
Reviewed By: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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