Keratodermia blennorrhagicum

A skin disease that occurs in patients with reactive arthritis (formerly Reiter's syndrome). Abbreviated KB. Classically, the areas of the skin that are involved are the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet, although other body surfaces may also be affected. The inflammation of the skin can come and go. When the inflammation is present, it appears as patches of reddish, raised pustules that can be painful and tender. These patchy areas may group together and peel periodically. KB can be treated with topical medications, including skin softeners (emollients) and medications that clear off the peeling, dry skin (keratolytic medications). Sometimes these treatments are used along with vitamin D creams, such as calcipotriene. Emotional stress and certain medications may aggravate the condition.