A REVIEW ON KERATOLYSIS EXFOLIATIVA

Keratolysis Exfoliativa (KE) is a rare skin disease that negatively affects physical beauty. It affects the soles and palms of the feet, making them peel and shed. It is often associated with hyperhidrosis and other environmental conditions like heat and humidity. However, genetics and other lifestyle factors are believed to affect its occurrence. Clinically, it is manifested with granular shedding of the skin, redness, irritation along with moisture and friction induced cracking. The pathophysiology of KE is caused by the impairment of the skin barrier that is brought on by moisture, friction and bacteria. The diagnosis is primarily based on case history with some distinction made due to other skin peeling diseases like dyshidrotic eczema and psoriasis. Treatment is focused on relief of the symptoms and consists of emollients, hydrocortisone, keratolytic, perspiration blocking agents, as well as changing lifestyle to reduce moisture and friction. KE is often self resolving, but ongoing support improves comfort and reduces flare-ups.