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Arch Dermatol. 2005;141:779-784.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

Diagnosis: "Mechanic’s hands" as part of the antisynthetase syndrome.

MICROSCOPIC FINDINGS AND CLINICAL COURSE

Histologic examination of the biopsy specimen revealed psoriasiform acanthosis with thick parakeratosis. A heavy lymphohistiocytic infiltrate in the upper dermis was noted, along with an interface dermatitis with occasional colloid bodies. Lymphocyte exocytosis was seen.

Our patient experienced little benefit from treatment with a variety of topical agents, including 0.05% clobetasol propionate and propylene glycol. However, her skin, joint, and muscle problems dramatically improved after therapy with systemic prednisolone (30 mg/d) and azathioprine (100 mg twice daily) was initiated.

DISCUSSION

Mechanic’s hands is a term that was first coined by Stahl et al¹ in 1979. It denotes hyperkeratotic change on the hands or feet, usually over the radial surfaces.² The condition is reported to be similar to the calloused hands seen in manual workers. Although mechanic’s hands may beseen with polymyositis and other connective tissue diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis, and overlap syndromes,³ the hyperkeratotic skin changes are . . . [Full Text of this Article]

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Arch Dermatol. 2005;141(6):779-784.
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