Aquagenic acrokeratoderma due to frequent handwashing during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak

Abstract

Aquagenic acrokeratoderma (AK) is a rare, transient type of acquired palmoplantar keratoderma resulting from short-term contact with water and characterized by white, transparent papules and plaques usually localized in the palmar regions of the hand. The pathogenesis of aquagenic acrokeratoderma is not fully understood and is assumed to be related to an increased salt concentration in the epidermal cells with an increase in the ability of stratum corneum to bind water. This report of patients developing AK following increased frequencies of handwashing in the COVID-19 Pandemic Outbreak is intended to contribute to our understanding of the pathogenesis.