Palmoplantar Pustular Psoriasis

Palmoplantar pustular psoriasis (PPPP), also known as palmoplantar pustulosis, is the most common form of pustular psoriasis and is localized on the palms, the soles of the feet, or both.

While GPP is known to spontaneously remit, PPPP is a chronic condition and can take months or years to get under control.

About PPPP

Appearance

When PPPP flares, it causes discolored skin with large yellow or white pustules scattered throughout. The pustules can darken and turn brown as they dry. Affected skin can scale, crack, and fissure, and outbreaks can last for a considerable amount of time.

Comorbidity

Although some people with PPPP also have plaque psoriasis (15.8%) it is less common.[1]

Correlations

Women develop PPPP at a significantly higher proportion than men (3.5 times) and the majority (79.8%) of people with PPPP are current or past smokers.[1]

Pustular Psoriasis Resource Center

NPF is here to help with resources, advice, and stories specifically for you to help live the healthy and happy life that you want.

Go to the Pustular Psoriasis Resource Center

References

[1] Twelves S, Mostafa A, Dand N,et al. Clinical and genetic differences between pustular psoriasis subtypes. J Allergy Clin Immunol. Mar 2019; 143(3): 1021-1026. doi:10.1016/j.jaci.2018.06.038.

Last updated on 01/30/2025 by the National Psoriasis Foundation.

Palmoplantar Pustular Psoriasis