Pitted and ringed keratolysis. A review and update

Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology

|December 1, 1982

Summary

Pitted and ringed keratolysis, affecting the feet and hands respectively, present diverse clinical signs. A Corynebacterium species is identified as the cause, producing similar lesions in experimental subjects.

Area of Science:

Dermatology
Microbiology

Background:

Pitted keratolysis and ringed keratolysis are distinct clinical presentations affecting the palms and soles.
Understanding the etiology and pathology is crucial for effective management.

Observation:

Varied clinical manifestations of pitted keratolysis (soles) and ringed keratolysis (palms) were observed.
Experimental models confirmed Corynebacterium species as the causative agent.

Findings:

A specific species of Corynebacterium was identified as the etiologic agent for both conditions.
Histopathological analysis revealed characteristic changes within the stratum corneum.

Implications:

This research clarifies the causative agent and pathology of these keratin disorders.
Findings support targeted treatment strategies for pitted and ringed keratolysis.