Acropustulosis of Infancy
Acropustulosis of infancy
Key Points
Skin condition which appears as recurrent pustules of the palms and/or soles and affects infants
Exact cause is unknown; however, Scabies should be ruled out as a cause of palmoplantar pustules in infants
Initially consists of flat red patches, which elevate and form a pustule, accompanied by itching and darker pigmentation
Acropustulosis of infancy is a skin condition which appears on the palms of the hands and/or soles of the feet. The condition initially consists of the formation of flat, red patches of skin in the affected area. These patches become elevated, blister and develop pustules, which leave temporary discoloration upon healing. Lesions occur in groups, becoming less frequent as the condition progresses. The condition is also accompanied by itching.
The exact cause of Acropustulosis of infancy is unknown, though in some cases it is thought to be related to an allergic reaction to the Scabies mite (the organism which causes Scabies), and may even follow a Scabies infection. However, presentation of the condition may be idiopathic. The condition typically affects infants under 3 years of age.
Differential Diagnosis (Other conditions with similar appearance)
Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease
Impetigo
Psoriasis, Pustular
Dyshidrotic Eczema
Scabies
Transient Neonatal Pustular Melanosis
Fire Ant Bites
Diagnosis
Key Points
Diagnosis based on the characteristic appearance of the affected area
Laboratory tests may be performed to rule out other conditions
Acropustulosis of infancy is typically diagnosed based on the characteristic appearance of the affected area. Laboratory testing may be performed to rule out associated or similar appearing conditions.
Treatment
Treatment is not typically required, as the condition is self-limiting
Treatment may consist of topical steroids and/or oral antihistamines
Severe cases may require treatment with Dapsone
Acropustulosis of infancy does not typically require treatment, as the condition is self-limiting. In cases which require treatment, it generally consists of the administration of topical steroids in conjunction with oral Antihistamines to relieve symptoms. Severe cases may require treatment with Dapsone.
Written by Chris Schach