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Palmoplantar Pustulosis: A Case Report
1Kent Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, Warwick, Rhode Island.
Clinical Practice and Cases in Emergency Medicine
|November 20, 2020
Summary
Emergency physicians should recognize palmoplantar pustulosis, a rare rash causing pustules on palms and soles. Early diagnosis and outpatient dermatology follow-up can prevent hospital admissions for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Dermatology complaints constitute 3.3% of annual emergency department (ED) visits.
- While most rashes are benign, some require urgent recognition by emergency physicians to prevent life-threatening outcomes.
- Palmoplantar pustulosis is an uncommon dermatologic condition presenting with sterile pustules on the palms and soles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of emergency physician awareness regarding palmoplantar pustulosis.
- To emphasize the potential for preventing hospital admissions through early diagnosis and treatment initiation.
Main Methods:
- A case report of a 76-year-old male presenting with coalescing pustules on palms and soles.
- Patient evaluation in the ED and subsequent transfer for dermatology consultation.
- Diagnosis of palmoplantar pustulosis and outpatient management plan.
Main Results:
- The patient was diagnosed with palmoplantar pustulosis.
- Treatment included topical clobetasol propionate and outpatient dermatology follow-up.
- The case illustrates a scenario manageable outside of hospital admission.
Conclusions:
- Palmoplantar pustulosis is characterized by recurrent sterile pustules on palms and soles.
- Emergency physician awareness is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
- Prompt recognition can lead to earlier treatment and potentially avoid hospital admission.
