Sports-related pads.

Abstract

Knuckle pads, first described by Garrod in 1893, 1 are benign, asymptomatic, well- circumscribed, smooth, firm, skin colored papules, nodules, or plaques. They most commonly occur on the dorsal aspect of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the finger, 2 but also may occur on the dorsal aspects of the foot over joints. 3-5 Knuckle pads may be inherited or acquired. 1 While some authors suggest that trauma is not a significant factor, 6 acquired knuckle pads have been associated with repetitive friction and trauma, 2,7 and may resemble athlete's nodules (also referred to as collagenomas). 1 Histologically, knuckle pads are characterized by hyperkeratosis, hypergranulosis, proliferation of fibroblasts and capillaries, and thickened and irregular collagen bundles. 1 Few cases of knuckle pads involving the lower extremities have been reported. 7 Knuckle pads of the feet have been described in association with inherited syndromes, such as acrokeratoelastoidosis Costa, 3 a syndrome of knuckle pads, leukonychia and deafness, 4 and a syndrome of knuckle pads, leukonychia, deafness and keratosis palmoplantaris. 5 We report a case that illustrates an unusual presentation of acquired knuckle pads of the feet secondary to repetitive friction from athletic gear.

• Authors: Rio Dickens, Brian B Adams, Diya F Mutasim
• Journal: International journal of dermatology (Int J Dermatol) Vol. 41 Issue 5 Pg. 291-3 (May 2002) ISSN: 0011-9059 [Print] England
• PMID: 12100708 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Topics

• Adolescent
• Female
• Foot Dermatoses (etiology, pathology)
• Humans
• Keratosis (etiology, pathology)
• Protective Devices (adverse effects)
• Sports Equipment (adverse effects)