Related Experiment Videos
Generalized pustular psoriasis with hypoparathyroidism
A Kawamura1, M T Kinoshita, H Suzuki
1Department of Dermatology, Surugadai Nihon University Hospital, 1-8-13 kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101, Japan. akawamur@med.nihon-u.ac.jp
European Journal of Dermatology : EJD
|October 19, 1999
Summary
A case study shows hypocalcemia due to hypoparathyroidism may trigger pustular psoriasis. Treatment normalizing calcium levels resolved the skin condition and pustules.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Endocrinology
- Pathology
Background:
- Pustular psoriasis is a rare, severe form of psoriasis.
- Hypoparathyroidism is a condition characterized by insufficient parathyroid hormone production, leading to hypocalcemia.
Observation:
- A 36-year-old Japanese woman presented with pustular psoriasis and hypocalcemia secondary to hypoparathyroidism.
- The patient's pustular psoriasis and erythroderma resolved after treatment with calcium supplements and calcitriol normalized serum calcium levels.
Findings:
- Histopathological examination revealed intraepidermal pustules and acantholysis in the epidermis.
- The resolution of skin lesions upon correction of hypocalcemia suggests a causal link.
Implications:
- This case suggests hypocalcemia can induce generalized pustular psoriasis.
- Acantholysis in this context may be attributed to calcium's role in epidermal intercellular junction integrity, particularly cadherins.