Overview
Peeling skin-leukonychia-acral punctate keratoses-cheilitis-knuckle pads syndrome is a very rare inherited skin disorder. It is sometimes referred to by the abbreviation PLACK syndrome. This condition affects the skin and nails in several distinct ways at the same time. People with PLACK syndrome experience peeling of the outer layer of skin, white discoloration of the nails (called leukonychia), small hard bumps on the palms and soles (acral punctate keratoses), cracking and inflammation of the lips (cheilitis), and thickened skin over the knuckles (knuckle pads). These features are all present together, which is what makes this syndrome unique. The skin changes can cause discomfort and affect appearance, which may impact a person's confidence and daily life. The nails may look white or opaque rather than clear or pink. The bumps on the hands and feet can sometimes be tender or uncomfortable. Lip cracking can be painful and may make eating or speaking uncomfortable. Currently, there is no cure for PLACK syndrome. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, such as using moisturizers, emollients, and protective measures for the skin and nails. Because this condition is so rare, most care is guided by dermatologists with experience in inherited skin disorders. Early diagnosis through genetic testing is important so that families can receive proper guidance and support.
Also known as:
Key symptoms:
Peeling of the outer layer of skinWhite or opaque nails (leukonychia)Small hard bumps on the palms and soles of the feetCracked, dry, or inflamed lips (cheilitis)Thickened skin pads over the knucklesSkin fragility or sensitivityDiscomfort or tenderness on the hands and feet
Autosomal recessive
Passed on when both parents carry the same gene change; often skips generations
Childhood
Begins in childhood, roughly ages 1 to 12
Treatments
No FDA-approved treatments are currently listed for Peeling skin-leukonychia-acral punctate keratoses-cheilitis-knuckle pads syndrome.
View clinical trials →Clinical Trials
View all trials with filters →No actively recruiting trials found for Peeling skin-leukonychia-acral punctate keratoses-cheilitis-knuckle pads syndrome at this time.
New trials open frequently. Follow this disease to get notified.
Specialists
View all specialists →No specialists are currently listed for Peeling skin-leukonychia-acral punctate keratoses-cheilitis-knuckle pads syndrome.
Treatment Centers
8 centersBaylor College of Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🏥 NORDStanford Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Stanford Medicine
📍 Stanford, CA
🔬 UDNNIH Clinical Center Undiagnosed Diseases Program ↗
National Institutes of Health
📍 Bethesda, MD
🔬 UDNUCLA UDN Clinical Site ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
🔬 UDNBaylor College of Medicine UDN Clinical Site ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🔬 UDNHarvard/MGH UDN Clinical Site ↗
Massachusetts General Hospital
📍 Boston, MA
🏥 NORDMayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine ↗
Mayo Clinic
📍 Rochester, MN
👤 Mayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine
🏥 NORDUCLA Rare Disease Day Program ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
Travel Grants
No travel grants are currently matched to Peeling skin-leukonychia-acral punctate keratoses-cheilitis-knuckle pads syndrome.
Community
No community posts yet. Be the first to share your experience with Peeling skin-leukonychia-acral punctate keratoses-cheilitis-knuckle pads syndrome.
Start the conversation →Latest news about Peeling skin-leukonychia-acral punctate keratoses-cheilitis-knuckle pads syndrome
No recent news articles for Peeling skin-leukonychia-acral punctate keratoses-cheilitis-knuckle pads syndrome.
Follow this condition to be notified when news becomes available.
Caregiver Resources
NORD Caregiver Resources
Support, advocacy, and financial assistance for caregivers of rare disease patients.
Mental Health Support
Rare disease caregiving can be isolating. Connect with counseling and peer support.
Family & Caregiver Grants
Financial assistance programs specifically for caregivers of rare disease patients.
Social Security Disability
Learn how rare disease patients may qualify for SSDI/SSI benefits.
Questions for your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment
- Q1.What skin care routine do you recommend for managing the peeling and dryness?,Are there any prescription creams or treatments that could help with the bumps on the hands and feet?,Should other family members be tested for this condition?,Are there any clinical trials or research studies we could participate in?,What signs should prompt us to come in sooner between scheduled appointments?,Can you refer us to a genetic counselor to help us understand the inheritance and family planning options?
Common questions about Peeling skin-leukonychia-acral punctate keratoses-cheilitis-knuckle pads syndrome
What is Peeling skin-leukonychia-acral punctate keratoses-cheilitis-knuckle pads syndrome?
Peeling skin-leukonychia-acral punctate keratoses-cheilitis-knuckle pads syndrome is a very rare inherited skin disorder. It is sometimes referred to by the abbreviation PLACK syndrome. This condition affects the skin and nails in several distinct ways at the same time. People with PLACK syndrome experience peeling of the outer layer of skin, white discoloration of the nails (called leukonychia), small hard bumps on the palms and soles (acral punctate keratoses), cracking and inflammation of the lips (cheilitis), and thickened skin over the knuckles (knuckle pads). These features are all prese
How is Peeling skin-leukonychia-acral punctate keratoses-cheilitis-knuckle pads syndrome inherited?
Peeling skin-leukonychia-acral punctate keratoses-cheilitis-knuckle pads syndrome follows a autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. Genetic counseling can help families understand recurrence risk and testing options.
At what age does Peeling skin-leukonychia-acral punctate keratoses-cheilitis-knuckle pads syndrome typically begin?
Typical onset of Peeling skin-leukonychia-acral punctate keratoses-cheilitis-knuckle pads syndrome is childhood. Age of onset can vary across affected individuals.