Papular Purpuric Gloves and Socks Syndrome (PPGSS) is a rash caused by Parvovirus or Hepatitis B virus, which I encounter in my The Woodlands dermatology and Conroe dermatology clinics. It is less common than Erythema Infectiosum (see blog entry Viruses – Erythema Infectiosum) and occurs in older children and adults. The rash is exclusively found on the feet and hands as there is a sharp demarcation between rash and normal skin at the ankles and wrists. PPGSS typically begins with a fever followed by erythema (redness) and edema (swelling) of the feet and hands. Over several days, the rash becomes purpuric (bruise like). Patients may also develop erythema over the cheeks, elbows, knees, and groin as well as developing small ulcers in the mouth. Over two weeks, the rash usually resolves without treatment.
