MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Pityriasis rubra pilaris

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Pityriasis rubra pilaris

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Definition Causes	Symptoms Treatment

Illustrations

Pitted keratolysis

Pityriasis rubra pilaris on the chest

Pityriasis rubra pilaris on the feet

Pityriasis rubra pilaris on the palms

Pityriasis rubra pilaris - close-up

Definition Return to top

Pityriasis rubra pilaris is a skin disorder that causes constant inflammation and scaling (exfoliation) of the skin.

Causes Return to top

There are many different types of pityriasis rubra pilaris. The cause is unknown, although genetic factors may play a role.

Symptoms Return to top

Pityriasis rubra pilaris is a chronic skin condition in which pink, scaly patches and thick skin develop on the hands and feet.

The pink scaly areas cover much of the body. Small "islands" of normal skin are seen within the areas of pink, scaly skin.

Treatment Return to top

Topical creams containing urea or lactic acid may help. More commonly, treatment includes pills taken by mouth such as isotretinoin, acitretin, or methotrexate.

Update Date: 4/10/2009

Updated by: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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