Keratolysis exfoliativa (case reports)

E.K. Murakhovskaya, T.A. Sysoeva, I.B. Mertsalova 

Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow 

This paper addresses current data on a common condition, keratolysis exfoliativa, which is characterized by painless air-filled blisters on the palms and soles leading to skin peeling and flaking. The clinical course of the disease is discussed in detail. Attention is paid to differential diagnostic aspects. It is now reasonable to say that the origin of keratolysis exfoliativa is different from that of dyshidrosis lamellosa sicca, dyshidrotic eczema, acral skin peeling syndrome, and other skin diseases, being an independent nosology. In most cases, keratolysis exfoliativa has a mild course and little effect on the quality of life. Therefore, patients rarely refer to medical care. As a rule, keratolysis exfoliativa occurs chronically with exacerbations and remissions but can also be a symptomatic manifestation of viral infections. In viral infections, keratolysis exfoliativa may be associated with onychomadesis, which regresses with complete recovery of nail plates. The authors describe their case reports illustrating the potential development of keratolysis exfoliativa in viral infections (rotavirus and COVID-19).

Keywords: keratolysis exfoliativa, keratolysis, onychomadesis, focal palmar peeling, desquamation, SARS-CoV-2, rotavirus.

For citation: Murakhovskaya E.K., Sysoeva T.A., Mertsalova I.B. Keratolysis exfoliativa (case reports). RMJ. 2023;6:32–35.