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Most dermatologists are familiar with the manifold clinical pictures of recurrent pustular eruptions of the palms and soles. Repeated attempts to improve understanding and interpretation of the condition by distinguishing separate entities or groups have not been successful. The nosologie position of this obscure and therapeutically recalcitrant disease remains uncertain. We had the opportunity of observing a case which responded effectively to the oral intake of cortisone. Since there is no recent reference in the literature to such therapy, this preliminary report is presented.
REPORT OF A CASE
Mrs. L. E., a 52 year old white woman, was first seen by one of us (M. W.) on Nov. 17, 1949. She complained of a painful skin disorder of six months' duration. Her personal and family history were noncontributory. At her first examination she presented, in the center of both soles, nearly symmetrical, ill defined erythematous areas with dry adherent scales. Minute superficial pustules were scattered throughout the exfoliating patches. Some of the pustules were capped by tiny brownish scabs. Several microscopic and cultural examinations for fungi gave negative results. The patient was treated and observed regularly for one year (by M. W.).