Differential Diagnosis for Palmer Sole Cracking in Children
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): This is the most common cause of palmer sole cracking in children, often associated with dry skin, itching, and inflammation. The cracking can be a result of repeated scratching and dryness.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Psoriasis: Characterized by thick, scaly plaques on the skin, psoriasis can cause cracking on the palms and soles due to the buildup of skin cells.
- Hyperhidrosis: Excessive sweating can lead to maceration of the skin, causing it to crack, especially on the soles.
- Contact Dermatitis: Irritant or allergic reactions to substances like soap, detergent, or certain metals can cause skin cracking on the palms and soles.
- Keratoderma: A group of disorders characterized by thickening of the skin on the palms and soles, which can lead to cracking.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Syphilis: A bacterial infection that can cause painless ulcers or rashes on the palms and soles, which may crack and become painful if left untreated.
- Tuberculosis: Although rare, cutaneous tuberculosis can manifest as skin lesions or ulcers on the palms and soles, which may crack and become infected.
- Meningococcemia: A severe bacterial infection that can cause skin lesions, including on the palms and soles, which may crack and become necrotic.
Rare Diagnoses
- Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris: A rare skin disorder characterized by constant scaling, redness, and thickening of the skin, which can lead to cracking on the palms and soles.
- Keratolysis Exfoliativa: A rare condition characterized by recurrent episodes of peeling and cracking of the skin on the palms and soles.
- Erythrokeratoderma: A rare genetic disorder that affects the skin, causing thickening, redness, and cracking on the palms and soles.