Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of this condition is not known. Studies are still going on in this field. However, the study of various cases have revealed that this condition is often associated with various malignant conditions of internal organs. It is commonly associated with lung and gastric malignancies. Tumors of the head, neck, or cancerous affection of the genitourinary tumors can also result in this condition. Tripe palms can also be triggered by various skin conditions like psoriasis or exfoliative dermatitis, etc.
Clinical presentation:
An individual suffering from this condition can present with thickening of skin of the palms. Blackish discoloration can occur. Scaling and wrinkling of skin on the dorsal aspect of the palm is seen. This all gives the skin a velvety appearance.
Investigations:
The symptoms narrated by the patient are taken into consideration. Along with this, a local examination of the affected area is carried out by the dermatologist. The history of the patient is noted down. Skin biopsy is done. If the history suggests of malignancy, appropriate medical advice is needed. Along with this, various investigations like ultrasonography, MRI, CT scan, various routine and specialized blood tests, cancer markers, and PET scan are done.
Treatment:
Treating the underlying cause is of foremost importance. If an underlying malignancy is detected, appropriate treatment is adopted. Surgical intervention along with radiation and chemotherapy is done. Ideally, tripe palm has no effective treatment. As the treatment of cancer becomes effective, the condition resolves.
Other modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up with the symptoms. Taking into consideration the symptoms in a holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
