Assessment of clinical manifestations related to palmoplantar keratoderma and its impact on quality of life of cases

Introduction: Palmoplantar keratodermas (PPKs) is heterogeneous entity of cutaneous disorders, with hyperkeratinisation of stratum corneum over palm and soles. PPKs can be hereditary or acquired. Acquired PPK occurs in later years due to continuous or constant exposure to allergens, irritants and exposure to trauma. Aim: This study undertaken to assess the clinical manifestations related to Palmoplantar keratoderma cases and its impact on quality of life of cases. Materials and Methods: A total of 106 patients with chief complaints of Palmoplantar keratoderma attending outpatient department of DVL were included. Detailed clinical history regarding diseases status was collected. The Patients feedback was taken as impact scores i.e. 3 (Very good), 2 (Good), 1 (Moderate), 0 (Poor). QOL was measured by grading system based on the patient's feedback. Results: Majority cases were between 2nd to 4th decades (65%). Housewives (30.1%) and daily wage labourers (24.5%) were more commonly affected by acquired PPK. Psoriasis (52.8%) followed by Eczema (15.09%), Pityriasis rubra pilaris (8.4%) and Erythroderma dermatitis (5.6%) are common symptoms associated with PPK. There is a notable impact of PPK on quality of life of patients in 57.4% cases. Conclusion: Acquired PPK is always misdiagnosed because it is nonhereditary. House wives and daily wage workers are commonly affected due to constant exposure to detergents, chemicals and various forms of trauma. Palmoplantar keratodermas has remarkable impact on quality of life of patients.