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Living with Keratosis palmaris et plantaris-clinodactyly syndrome

A rare inherited condition with thick skin on the palms and soles and a curved little finger, present from birth.

Understanding Keratosis palmaris et plantaris-clinodactyly syndrome

Keratosis palmaris et plantaris-clinodactyly syndrome is a rare condition that combines thick palms and soles with a curved fifth finger.

It is noticed in newborns. The skin on the palms and soles is thickened, and the little finger curves (clinodactyly). People may also sweat more than usual.

Signs & symptoms

Symptoms vary from person to person. GARD lists these among the most common:

  • Thickened skin on the palms and soles
  • Curved little finger (clinodactyly)
  • Excessive sweating

Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.

Diagnosis

  1. Talk with your doctor

    Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.

  2. See a specialist

    Specialists who may be involved include genetic specialists and skin, hair, and nail specialists.

  3. Ask which tests can help

    Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.

  4. Connect with expert centers

    Foundation for Ichthyosis and Related Skin Types may keep lists of experts for this condition.

Care & treatment

Care team
Genetic specialists (geneticists); Skin, hair, and nail specialists (dermatologists)
Expert care
Expert lists: Foundation for Ichthyosis and Related Skin Types
Treatment
GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
Research
Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.

General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.

Everyday life

Living with a rare condition is easier with support.

  • Connect with Foundation for Ichthyosis and Related Skin Types and other patient organizations
  • Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
  • Ask about patient registries that help research
  • Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Bring these questions to your next doctor visit
Can genetic testing find the gene change in our family?
What skin care helps with thick palms and soles?
Is the curved finger likely to affect hand use?

Quick facts

Symptoms usually startNewborn
InheritanceAutosomal Dominant

GARD says changes in genes (also called variants) cause this condition. It is autosomal dominant, meaning one changed copy of the gene is enough.

GeneticSkin

Also known as: keratosis palmaris et plantaris with clinodactyly; palmoplantar keratoderma-clinodactyly syndrome

Patient organizations

Source: NIH GARD · Keratosis palmaris et plantaris-clinodactyly syndromeGARD ID 16766 · GARD page updated September 2026 · Plain-language summary by Know Rare; editorial review pending. General information, not medical advice.

You are more than your diagnosis

Perspectives from people navigating life with Keratosis palmaris et plantaris-clinodactyly syndrome.

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