If you’ve had breakouts of itchy, scaly, or painful pustules on the soles of your feet or the palms of your hands, you may have palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP).

Palmoplantar pustulosis is often considered a form of psoriasis. Up to 24 percent of people with PPP also have psoriasis on another part of the body. Other names for the condition include chronic palmoplantar pustular psoriasis and pustulosis palmoplantaris.

If you have palmoplantar pustulosis — or think you might — talk with your dermatologist. Although this condition can sometimes be challenging to manage, there are treatments that may help.

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Read on to learn more about palmoplantar pustulosis and how it may affect people with psoriasis, including people with psoriasis on the hands or feet.

Recognizing Palmoplantar Pustulosis Symptoms

Palmoplantar pustulosis is sometimes classified as a localized form of pustular psoriasis, although some health experts consider it a separate condition. It specifically affects the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, unlike generalized pustular psoriasis, which can show up anywhere on the body.

PPP symptoms that may develop on your palms and soles include:

Palmoplantar pustulosis can resemble other skin disorders, which may make it difficult to diagnose. These conditions include acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau, a related skin disease, and the following skin disorders:

Pictures of Palmoplantar Pustulosis Symptoms

Palmoplantar pustulosis can significantly affect your quality of life. The painful cracks and lesions can make daily activities such as walking, standing, and using your hands difficult.

PPP symptoms may be worsened by weather changes, pressure or friction, manual labor, or household chores that involve detergents or other irritants.

Although palmoplantar pustulosis refers to a condition on the palms or soles, other areas of the body, particularly the nails, may also be affected.

MyPsoriasisTeam Members on Palmoplantar Pustulosis

PPP flare-ups can greatly affect your life. MyPsoriasisTeam members living with palmoplantar pustulosis have shared their experiences and frustrations.

“I have palmoplantar pustulosis psoriasis — trying to learn everything I can. So far, trying diet changes, stress control, natural remedies, and moisturizer creams,” a member wrote. “I have one flare-up after another. The prospect of this spreading and getting worse isn’t comforting.”

Another member said, “I have palmoplantar psoriasis and am in a huge flare. I can barely hold a cup! It makes everything seem 100 times harder. I guess the only good thing is no dishes.”

One MyPsoriasisTeam member wrote, “I also have palmoplantar psoriasis, and mine has spread fairly rapidly. I have also noticed two small patches on my arm. My family doctor thought it was psoriasis coming in there also. The new ones on my arm don’t look like much yet, so I’m not sure what is going to happen.”

What Comorbidities Are Linked to Palmoplantar Pustulosis?

People with palmoplantar pustulosis have a risk of developing some of the same comorbidities (coinciding conditions) that occur in people with psoriasis. These include heart disease, metabolic disorders, and psychiatric conditions.

Compared with people with psoriasis, people with PPP may have a higher risk of developing conditions such as type 1 or type 2 diabetes, allergic contact dermatitis, celiac disease, and inflammatory bowel disease.

People with palmoplantar pustulosis may be less likely than people with psoriasis to develop other comorbidities, such as:

Some comorbidities may be serious if left untreated, so be sure to discuss your risks with your doctor.

Skin Care Tips

Along with sticking to your recommended treatment plan, focusing on skin care can help protect irritated skin. Avoid harsh soaps, bubble bath, or shower gel on affected areas.

Instead, use a fragrance-free emollient or moisturizing cleanser, especially if your skin is cracked. Moisturize affected areas regularly.

Identifying and avoiding triggers can also help protect skin from outbreaks of palmoplantar pustulosis.

MyPsoriasisTeam Members on Managing Palmoplantar Pustulosis Symptoms

MyPsoriasisTeam members have shared personal tips for skin care that have helped relieve their PPP symptoms. These are personal experiences, not proven PPP treatments. Talk with your dermatologist before trying a home remedy.

“Cotton socks and Hydromol on for bed — I have pustular palmoplantar psoriasis on my soles and palms,” said one member. “It will help to reduce cracking.”

Another member offered this tip: “I have been using aloe vera from my homegrown plant! I peel one side of the aloe cut from the plant, trim, and place the peeled (sharp bits removed) and juicy side of the leaf on the affected arch of my foot and hold it in place with a bandage. Socks on, shoes on, and off to work. I keep this in place all day. The healing at the end of the day is unbelievable. I do the same at night on my affected hands.”

Stay in Contact With Your Dermatologist

Maintaining good communication with your dermatologist is essential for your care. If you have palmoplantar pustulosis, let your doctor know about any new, changing, or worsening symptoms. Effective management of PPP symptoms and disease activity may help you avoid complications and feel your best.