Author(s): Dr Vidette Wong, Specialty Doctor in Medicine, United Kingdom (2024)
Reviewing dermatologist: Dr Ian Coulson (2024).
Edited by the DermNet content department
This young gentleman presented to the emergency department with a new onset red-hot and painful rash on his hands and feet. The rash was clearly demarcated, as shown in the clinical photographs. He described some preceding non-specific viral symptoms.
Papular purpuric gloves and socks syndrome (PPGSS) is a distinctive viral rash characterised by painful redness and swelling of the feet and hands. This is usually a clinical diagnosis based on its characteristic features.
Parvovirus B19 is a single-stranded DNA virus and is the most common virus responsible for this syndrome. Other viruses such as hepatitis B, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and measles have also been associated with PPGSS, as well as drug reactions.
If parvovirus B19 is suspected – serology for IgG, IgM or PCR should be performed as parvovirus B19 infection can result in other complications especially in a pregnant or immunocompromised patient.
Papular purpuric gloves and socks syndrome is treated symptomatically and resolution usually occurs within one to three weeks with desquamation and without scarring.
