General Characteristics and Comorbidities in Patients with Palmoplantar Pustulosis

Abstract

The aim of this prospective study was to analyze comorbidities in patients with palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP). The current study comprised 63 consecutive patients with palmoplantar pustulosis. The control group consisted of 37 patients with psoriasis vulgaris (PSV). The study included a standardized anamnesis, a clinical examination, blood tests for thyroid hormones, as well as calcium, magnesium, antiendomysial antibody, and patch tests. Hypertension was observed in 28/63 (44.44%) patients with PPP. Eight (12.7%) had ischaemic heart disease, and 7/63 (11.11%) had type 2 diabetes mellitus. There was no statistically significant difference between the patients with PPP and those in the control group. Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed in 19/63 (30.16%) patients with PPP and in 12/37 (32.43%) patients with PSV. Thyroid disease was more prevalent among patients with PPP in comparison to patients with PSV (31.75% vs. 13.51%; p=0.0421). Body mass index was statistically significantly higher in patients with PSV (28.25 vs. 25.86 kg/m², p=0.0144). BMI was higher than 25 kg/m2 in 18.03% patients with PPP and 26.47% patients with PSV (p=0.333). Positive patch tests were observed in 12/39 (30.77%) patients with PPP. The most common allergens were nickel chloride (5/12, 41.67%) and fragrances (5/12, 41.67%). In the control group, patch tests were positive in 2/11 (18.18%) cases (p<0.05). Patients with PPP, like patients with PSV, often presented with hypertension and metabolic syndrome. Given that many studies have focused on cardiovascular risk in PSV, there is a need for further research on the association between PPP and cardiovascular risk. In addition, patients resistant to PPP treatment should be screened for contact allergies.