Porokeratosis

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Porokeratosis
Porokeratosis
Synonyms
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Skin lesions, itching, burning sensation
Complications	Skin cancer
Onset	Varies by type
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Genetic factors, sun exposure, immunosuppression
Risks	Family history, immunosuppression, UV exposure
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, skin biopsy
Differential diagnosis	Actinic keratosis, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Cryotherapy, laser therapy, topical medications
Medication	5-fluorouracil, imiquimod, retinoids
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Porokeratosis - high magnification

Microstructure of a steel powder particle

Porokeratosis is a group of rare, chronic, genetic disorders of keratinization characterized by atrophic patches surrounded by a distinctive hyperkeratotic ridge-like border called a cornoid lamella.

Types

There are several types of porokeratosis, including:

• Porokeratosis of Mibelli
• Disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis
• Linear porokeratosis
• Punctate porokeratosis
• Porokeratosis palmaris et plantaris disseminata

Symptoms

The symptoms of porokeratosis vary depending on the type, but may include:

• Small, ring-like spots
• Red, scaly patches
• Itching or burning sensation
• Painful cracks on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet

Causes

The exact cause of porokeratosis is unknown, but it is believed to be genetic. It may also be triggered by exposure to sunlight, immune system disorders, or skin injuries.

Diagnosis

Porokeratosis is diagnosed through a physical examination and a skin biopsy. The biopsy can reveal the characteristic cornoid lamella, which is a diagnostic feature of porokeratosis.

Treatment

Treatment for porokeratosis may include:

• Topical creams and ointments
• Cryotherapy
• Laser therapy
• Dermabrasion

Prognosis

The prognosis for porokeratosis varies depending on the type and severity of the condition. Some forms of porokeratosis may increase the risk of skin cancer.

See also

• List of cutaneous conditions
• Dermatology