Garrod's pads

Garrod's Pad is a medical term referring to a callus or hyperkeratosis that forms on the dorsal aspect of the interphalangeal joints of the hand. It is named after the British physician, Sir Archibald Garrod, who first described the condition.

Overview

Garrod's Pad is a type of reactive hyperplasia of the skin, which is a response to chronic pressure or friction. It is commonly seen in individuals who use their hands repetitively or strenuously, such as manual laborers or musicians. The condition is characterized by the formation of a thickened, hardened area of skin over the dorsal aspect of the interphalangeal joints. This can cause discomfort and may interfere with the normal function of the hand.

Causes

The primary cause of Garrod's Pad is chronic pressure or friction on the skin over the interphalangeal joints. This can occur due to repetitive or strenuous use of the hands, or as a result of certain medical conditions that affect the joints, such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.

Symptoms

The main symptom of Garrod's Pad is the presence of a thickened, hardened area of skin over the dorsal aspect of the interphalangeal joints. This may be accompanied by discomfort or pain, particularly when the hand is used. In severe cases, the pad may crack or fissure, which can increase the risk of infection.

Treatment

Treatment for Garrod's Pad primarily involves reducing pressure and friction on the affected area. This may involve changes to work or activity habits, or the use of protective gloves or padding. In some cases, topical treatments such as keratolytic creams may be used to soften and reduce the thickness of the pad. If the pad is causing significant discomfort or interfering with hand function, surgical removal may be considered.

See Also

• Callus
• Hyperkeratosis
• Interphalangeal joints
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteoarthritis