Redness of the palms: Origins, signs, and remedies
Palmar erythema, a condition characterised by reddening of the palms, is a common clinical sign that warrants investigation for potential underlying systemic diseases. While it can occasionally occur without any identifiable cause (primary palmar erythema), it is usually a symptom of an underlying condition.
Secondary palmar erythema is associated with a variety of health issues, including liver diseases such as cirrhosis, hemochromatosis, and Wilson disease. Other conditions linked to this condition include endocrine disorders like myxoedema (hypothyroidism), autoimmune diseases, infections and inflammatory conditions, hematologic disorders, and exposure to certain medications or toxins like arsenic and chlorinated hydrocarbons.
Investigating the cause of palmar erythema may involve tests to measure liver function, fasting glucose levels, total blood cell count, the presence of hepatitis B or C, thyroid function, iron or copper levels, blood urea nitrogen, blood creatine levels, and levels of various antibodies. If the redness is due to medication, healthcare professionals may recommend alternative medications.
Primary palmar erythema can be caused by pregnancy, genetics, or idiopathic reasons. In some cases, it may be a result of a genetic predisposition, and children with palmar erythema may develop the condition due to congenital syphilis, poisoning, hepatopulmonary hypertension, or Kawasaki disease.
Palmar erythema is not typically itchy or painful, but hands may feel slightly warmer. On darker skin tones, palmar erythema may appear darker than the natural skin tone. The degree of redness may vary depending on factors such as body temperature, physical activity, and emotional state.
It is always good to check in with a healthcare professional periodically if palmar erythema is long-term, even if it has no underlying cause. Treatment for palmar erythema involves finding and addressing the underlying cause. For instance, cirrhosis treatment aims to treat the underlying causes of liver damage, including lifestyle changes and medications.
In some cases, redness may extend to the lower part of the palm and fingers, and in some cases, to the soles of the feet (known as plantar erythema). The redness may resemble a rash, and the skin will turn pale when pressed. If you notice any signs of palmar erythema, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
- The predictive value of palmar erythema lies in its association with various medical-conditions, such as liver diseases like cirrhosis, hemochromatosis, and Wilson disease.
- Dermatitis, psoriasis, and atopic conditions are among the autoimmune diseases linked to palmar erythsema, often showing up as inflammatory conditions.
- Type 2 diabetes and alcoholuse might also be underlying causes to investigate, as they can lead to changes in liver function and blood sugar levels.
- Investigating palmar erythema may require tests for diseases like diabetes (fasting glucose levels), hepatitis (presence of hepatitis B or C), thyroid function (thyroid function tests), and even antibodies related to specific conditions.
- In cases of primary palmar erythema, diabetes, hypertension, Kawasaki disease, poisoning, or congenital syphilis might be factors to consider, especially in children with the condition.
- Health-and-wellness professionals may recommend alternative medications if palmar erythema is caused by a specific medication or toxin, like arsenic or chlorinated hydrocarbons.
- While palmar erythema itself isn't typically itchy or painful, certain skin-care products or irritants could aggravate the redness, so it's important to discuss potential triggers with a healthcare professional.
- If plantar erythema (redness extending to the soles of the feet) occurs alongside palmar erythema, or if the redness resembles a rash and the skin turns pale when pressed, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
