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Palmoplantar pustular psoriasis provoked by lithium therapy
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
|November 1, 1982
Summary
Lithium therapy can trigger or worsen palmoplantar pustulosis, a psoriasiform disease. Discontinuing lithium led to remission in one patient, suggesting a link between lithium and this skin condition.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
- Immunology
Background:
- Lithium is a mood stabilizer used in treating bipolar disorder.
- Psoriasiform diseases encompass a group of skin conditions characterized by plaque-like lesions.
- Palmoplantar pustulosis presents with pustules on the palms and soles.
Observation:
- A 49-year-old woman experienced the onset of palmoplantar pustulosis after six months of lithium treatment.
- Conventional topical treatments offered limited efficacy in managing her condition.
Findings:
- The patient's palmoplantar pustulosis resolved completely upon cessation of lithium therapy.
- This case suggests lithium may precipitate or exacerbate palmoplantar pustulosis, classifying it among lithium-induced psoriasiform dermatoses.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider lithium as a potential causative agent in patients presenting with palmoplantar pustulosis.
- Monitoring for dermatological side effects is crucial during lithium treatment.
- Further research may elucidate the mechanisms underlying lithium-induced psoriasiform eruptions.
