About Pachyonychia Congenita

What is Pachyonychia Congenita?

Pachyonychia Congenita (PC) is a rare genetic disorder that affects the skin, nails, and teeth. It is characterized by thickening of the nails, palmoplantar keratoderma (thickening of the skin on the palms and soles of the feet), and oral leukokeratosis (white patches on the tongue and inside of the mouth). Other symptoms may include hair loss, cysts, and nail deformities. PC is caused by mutations in one of several genes, and is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern.

What are the symptoms of Pachyonychia Congenita?

The symptoms of Pachyonychia Congenita vary from person to person, but the most common symptoms include:

-Thickened, discolored nails
-Thickened, rough skin on the palms and soles of the feet
-White patches on the tongue
-Cysts on the skin
-Painful calluses on the palms and soles of the feet
-Hair loss
-Hoarse voice
-Difficulty swallowing
-Difficulty opening the mouth
-Frequent infections of the skin, nails, and mucous membranes

What are the causes of Pachyonychia Congenita?

Pachyonychia congenita is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in one of five genes: KRT6A, KRT6B, KRT6C, KRT16, and KRT17. These mutations cause the body to produce abnormal keratin proteins, which are responsible for the formation of the skin, nails, and hair. The exact cause of the mutations is unknown, but they are believed to be inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, meaning that only one copy of the mutated gene is necessary for a person to be affected.

What are the treatments for Pachyonychia Congenita?

The treatments for Pachyonychia Congenita vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual patient. Generally, treatments may include:

1. Topical medications such as keratolytics, emollients, and topical steroids to reduce inflammation and soften the skin.

2. Oral medications such as retinoids, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce inflammation and improve skin health.

3. Surgery to remove thickened nails and reduce the risk of infection.

4. Phototherapy to reduce inflammation and improve skin health.

5. Laser therapy to reduce the thickness of the nails.

6. Nutritional supplements to improve skin health.

7. Physical therapy to improve mobility and reduce pain.

What are the risk factors for Pachyonychia Congenita?

The primary risk factor for Pachyonychia Congenita is genetic inheritance. It is an autosomal dominant disorder, meaning that a person only needs to inherit one copy of the mutated gene from one parent in order to develop the condition. Other risk factors include family history of the disorder, being of a certain ethnic background, and having a certain type of skin.

Is there a cure/medications for Pachyonychia Congenita?

There is no cure for Pachyonychia Congenita, but there are medications that can help manage the symptoms. These include topical steroids, oral retinoids, and topical keratolytics. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as avoiding hot showers and wearing open-toed shoes can help reduce the severity of the condition.