Acquired keratoderma

Synonym:

Keratoderma climactericum

Acquired keratoderma usually occurs on the soles of post menopausal females.

Typically it most severely involves the circumference of the heel, with relative sparing of the central heel. Fissuring can occur, causing pain.

Treatment:

• Full dose etretinate or acitretin can produce significant improvement.
• Topical keratolytics such as salicylic acid 5-10% in an ointment base, or in 70% propylene glycol, can be quite helpful in softening the skin in effected individuals.

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