The condition is mostly inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern.[6] To a lesser extent, a recessive form exists.[5] It is caused by genetic mutations in the genes encoding the proteins keratin 1 or keratin 10, resulting in disruption of the structure of the epidermis.[6]
Keratin 1 is associated with the variants affecting the palms and soles.[6]
Keratin 10 is associated with the variants in which these are unaffected.[6]
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is by its appearance, skin biopsy, and genetic testing.[6]
The condition can be diagnosed via exam that reveals; generalized redness; thick, generally dark, scales that tend to form parallel rows of spines or ridges, especially near large joints; the skin is fragile and blisters easily following trauma; extent of blistering and amount of scale is variable.[citation needed]
Treatment
Treatment includes applying thick moisturisers.[5] Other therapies include topical and oral retinoids.[5] These include topical N-acetylcysteine, liarozole, and calcipotriol.[6] Bacterial colonisation of skin may be reduced by use of antibacterial soaps, chlorhexidine, and dilute sodium hypochlorite baths.[6]