It usually comes about in the summer triggered by humid conditions. One of the primary signs of the disease starts with bursting blisters, scales that peel and are circular in shape, and areas appear to be cracked and peeled too. Though it looks like dry, peeling skin, water makes it worse. Pitted keratolysis occurs as a result of a bacterial infection that causes smelly and itchy feet. While there are no known causes for Keratolysis Exfoliativa, the following are probably what caused skin peeling: A few other conditions that also cause peeling of the skin are: Choosing socks and shoes that fit your feet and arent too tight. Our body demands special care from us. Hyperhidrosis The peeled skin from the fingers and fingertips is often harder due to constant peeling before healing takes place. Although effective, PUVA treatment can also have some negative side effects such as: As previously mentioned above, there is no definitive cure for this disorder. For this procedure, the patient is contained in a cabinet consisting 24 UVA fluorescent bulbs. This can be done by applying the medical ointments like OTC moisturizer on the affected area and then avoiding any water or moisture contact with that affected region. Some individuals have a family history of the disorder. If there is a component of primary hyperhidrosis, attempt to treat it with topical medication. But this method is rarely recommended as psoralen activation works best with UVA. Educating the patient on the benign nature of this condition is imperative, as often the patient merely wants a diagnosis and does not desire any further treatment. Keratolysis exfoliativa is more common during the summer months in about 50% of affected individuals. Keratolysis exfoliativa is diagnosed clinically. 2001. pp. Fourthly, although unproven, medical researchers believe that extremely hot climate during summer increases episodes of perspiration. An official website of the United States government. She spends her free time reading books and watching TV series. If you regularly use essential oils, like tea tree oil, ask your healthcare provider before using it on your affected skin. Often times, these creams also contain silicone and urea. It is also known as Focal Palmar Peeling and is typically observed in young adults If you have pitted keratolysis, that odor will still be present after you wash your feet and change your socks and shoes. The epidermis is made up of several layers of keratin, a type of protein which helps the skin to remain flexible, strong and waterproof. Visit your healthcare provider if you have symptoms so they can offer treatment to remove the infection from your body. Picture 1: Fingers affected withExfoliative Keratolysis. This is likely a common condition that rarely presents to physicians because it is largely asymptomatic. Microscopy reveals cleavage within the outside horny layer of skin, the stratum corneum. Dont miss out on todays top content on Dermatology Advisor. Keratolysis exfoliativa does not improve with topical steroids, unlike hand dermatitis. There are also forms of exfoliative keratolysis natural treatment that may help relieve the condition. Common symptoms that accompany skin peeling are rashes, itching, dryness and other irritants. 102-6. This approach has been present since 1976 and uses ultraviolet rays to treat the condition. First, lets take a look at how the outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, is involved in the development of exfoliative keratolysis. Recurrent focal palmar peeling. This article will detail everything you need to know about exfoliative keratolysis causes, symptoms, treatments, natural home remedies, and tips to prevent the condition. Allergic contact dermatitis (differentiated by its pruritic nature, response to topical steroids, inflammatory appearance with erythema on exam, and a possible exposure history), 4. Br J Dermatol. Causes and Treatment. Exfoliative keratolysis treatment. Eczema can be painful too unlike the aforementioned which doesnt have accompanying pain. Thirdly, detergents, irritating soaps and sometimes solvents can cultivate exfoliation reactions. Archives of Dermatology and Syphilology, 23(3), 445-471. A dermatologist may notice these signs and up on further investigation recommend the right treatment for the patient. Arch Dermatol, 3(202), 11. Jock itch Epub 2016 May 18. 2012 Nov;167(5):1076-84. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2012.11175.x. Changing your shoes and socks when they get wet. It most often affects the skin on your feet. Exfoliative keratolysis is mostly a seasonal disease. When the blisters present around the palms burst, they cause circular marks leaving cracked skin on fingertips. Want to know more about exfoliative keratolysis? There has been no conventional drug proven to be effective to heal exfoliative keratolysis. The majority of patients, with only mild disease, can be treated with topical moisturizers or keratolytics and followed up as needed. Lee YC, Rycroft RJ, White IR, McFadden JP. Your socks can play a role in how much air gets to your feet too. vol. At times it may affect the tips of the fingers; cracks formed due to the skin condition could go deeper into the skin. Pitted keratolysis home treatment. The lower body may also see such signs of flaking in the form of skin peeling on legs. The risk factors for Keratolysis Exfoliativa include: It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. 100 Jaar Leerstoel Dermatologie Rijksuniversiteit te Groningen. Books about skin diseasesBooks about the skin The peroxide solution should be no more than one part hydrogen peroxide to three parts warm water. The first indication of Keratolysis Exfoliativa in Indians is peeling of the skin. Bookshelf It is important to explain the natural history of keratolysis exfoliativa to the patient before initiating any treatment. Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma Avoid certain bathroom products: Stay away from products with substances that may contribute to exfoliative keratolysis, including solvents, antibacterial soaps, and certain fabrics. However, the condition is recurrent sometime after the skin returns to normal. Fans and air conditioning equipments are readily available to neutralize the heating process as lengthened periods of treatment tend to get very hot sometimes. The condition does not limit itself to the hands. Copyright and all rights reserved. Keratolysis Exfoliativa in India may arise due to sunburns or infections that directly cause damage to the skin. The usage of lotions that are rich in Salicylic Acid and Lactic Acid may prevent infection A diagnosis of Keratolysis Exfoliativa may involve the following exams and procedures: A differential diagnosis may be necessary to eliminate other conditions that present similar signs and symptoms such as: Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. vol. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis, Tinea manuum (fungal infection of the hand), Avoiding known irritants, chemicals, and friction, where possible, Application of topical agents such as lactic acid or silicone cream. Although rare, it can also affect the palm of your hand. Exfoliative Keratolysis Treatment Picture 2: Palm with Exfoliative Keratolysis The best way to treat the condition is to avoid the causative factors. Key Takeaway: When this is the case, it is best to consult your doctor for exfoliative keratolysis treatment. JAMA Dermatol. Chang YY, van der Velden J, van der Wier G, Kramer D, Diercks GF, van Geel M, Coenraads PJ, Zeeuwen PL, Jonkman MF. Treat hyperhidrosis if present. Spending long hours and over-exposing your body to the sun can cause cracks in the skin resulting in peeling of the skin in India. How is keratolysis exfoliativa treated in India? , 1999. Skin peels off the feet and around the fingers is also a common indication of Keratolysis Exfoliativa in India. The condition is typically caused by an overgrowth of bacteria on the skin or by a reaction to a medication. When your hands are covered in ruptured blisters, the first thing you want to know is the cause of this irritating skin condition. Psychiatry 27 years experience. Maintaining good personal hygiene and avoiding overexposure to the sun. Clipboard, Search History, and several other advanced features are temporarily unavailable. Want to talk to an expert regarding your diet? This problem is more prevalent in younger age groups. Because of this prevalent condition, the disease is sometimes mistaken for eczema. The patient should be aware of the conditions benign nature and understand that typically, it will improve over time without any treatment. Your healthcare provider will diagnose pitted keratolysis after reviewing your complete medical history and performing a physical exam to learn more about your symptoms. Keratolysis Exfoliativa is a fairly common skin condition that is characterized by localized peeling (exfoliation) of the outer layers of skin of the palms and soles. Eventually normal skin forms, but frequently exfoliative keratolysis recurs within a few weeks. The following may be helpful: Protection from irritants Emollient hand creams especially those containing urea, lactic acid, or silicone Acitretin Photochemotherapy. Synthetic materials or blended materials in socks can restrict airflow to your feet. A patient complains of dry skin of the palm with initial air-filled blisters on fingers. 18. Treatment options are summarized in Table I. The application of cucumber juice, aloe vera gel, witch hazel, or pineapple juice can also help improve exfoliative keratolysis. Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a chronic condition that affects the skin. Another is to be extra careful during outbreaks particularly summer season. In addition to the above, topical use of emollients that contain urea, silicone and lactic acid is also beneficial in keeping the skins layers healthy because the disease usually attacks the outermost layer of the skin therefore it is best to make sure this is protected. There are a number of preventative tips that can help you decrease the risk of exfoliative keratolysis symptoms. 1996. pp. Firstly, exposure to allergens can cause the condition to develop as it can sometimes be a result of an allergic reaction. No worries! Your healthcare provider will offer treatment to make the bacteria that cause pits in your feet go away, which will ease your fear. You might be more at risk of developing pitted keratolysis if you: Pitted keratolysis is common among people who work in certain occupations where you spend most of your day on your feet or among people who participate in strenuous physical activities, including: You might notice your symptoms become more apparent when your skin is wet. If you are struggling with exfoliative keratolysis or another skin condition, visit a dermatologist or a natural health practitioner familiar with skin problems to learn more about the best treatment approaches available for you.