[Palmoplantar keratoderma: a rare manifestation of myxoedema]

Abstract

Background: Herein we report a rare case of acquired palmoplantar keratoderma in association with myxoedema and hypothyroidism.

Patients and methods: A 53-year-old woman presented with palmoplantar keratoderma, dry skin, muscular weakness and cramps for 9 months. The laboratory work-up revealed autoimmune thyroiditis with hypothyroidism. Skin biopsy showed chronic eczema. Other causes of acquired palmoplantar keratoderma were ruled out. Rapid improvement was achieved within 3 weeks of institution of hormone replacement therapy.

Discussion: Although this association is very rare, hypothyroidism must be suspected in patients with acquired palmoplantar keratoderma, particularly when it occurs in association with systemic symptoms.

Keywords: Hypothyroidie; Hypothyroidism; Myxoedema; Myxœdème; Palmo-plantaire; Palmoplantar keratoderma.