Acrokeratosis verruciformis in Adult
Synopsis

AKV typically presents with closely grouped verrucous papules on the dorsal hands and feet, elbows, and knees, with occasional punctate keratoses of the acral surfaces. Papules often develop in childhood and increase in number throughout adolescence. They can also be present at birth. Nails may also be affected, with changes including striations, subungual hyperkeratosis, and distal nail V-shaped nicking.
AKV arises from a single genetic defect to the ATP2A2 gene on chromosome 12 that affects calcium transport in the sarcoendoplasmic reticulum and leads to disordered keratinization. The pattern of inheritance of AKV is autosomal dominant with incomplete penetrance, so a positive family history may not always be present. Sporadic cases have also been reported. There is no sex or racial / ethnic predilection.
Much of the published research on AKV has explored its relationship to Darier disease, as both conditions are caused by mutations in ATP2A2, making AKV and Darier disease allelic.
The natural course of the condition is chronic, without spontaneous remission. It is generally benign, but rare cases of malignant transformation to squamous cell carcinoma have been reported.
Codes
Q82.8 – Other specified congenital malformations of skin
SNOMEDCT:
400018004 – Acrokeratosis verruciformis of Darier disease
400085009 – Acrokeratosis verruciformis of Hopf
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Last Updated:03/10/2024