Darier's Disease - Symptom, Treatment and cause of Darier's Disease

Description of Darier's Disease

Rare skin condition that usually starts between 8 and 15years of age, and affects the face, back, scalp, groin and armpits.

Causes of Darier's Disease

Inherited disorder causing the production of abnormal keratin (hardening substance in skin). May flare with heat and sweating.

Darier's Disease symptoms

Small, brown, firm lumps on the skin that slowly enlarge and become covered in greasy scales. May appear as small pits on the soles and palms.

Investigations for Darier's Disease

Diagnosed by skin biopsy.

Treatment of Darier's Disease

Salicylic acid and retinoic acid ointments.

Darier's Disease Complications

Lumps in the skin may merge together to form a hard crusted plaque. nails become brittle, ridged and discoloured in persistent cases. Secondary bacterial infections may occur. May be associated with subnormal mentality and reduced height in some patients.

Prognosis of Darier's Disease

May settle spontaneously in early stages. Prolonged disease difficult to control.