Hand-foot syndrome

Hand-foot syndrome (HFS), also known as Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia (PPE), is a side effect, which can occur when taking certain types of chemotherapy or biological therapy drugs. The condition is characterized by redness, swelling, and pain in the palms of the hands and/or the soles of the feet. Sometimes, HFS can be severe enough to interfere with daily activities.

Causes

Hand-foot syndrome is caused by the leakage of small amounts of chemotherapy drugs out of the capillaries, the smallest blood vessels in the body. This leakage tends to occur in the hands and feet due to the high amount of use and impact these areas of the body experience. The drugs can damage the surrounding tissues, leading to the symptoms of HFS.

Symptoms

The symptoms of hand-foot syndrome can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Redness, similar to a sunburn
• Swelling
• A sensation of tingling or burning
• Sensitivity to touch
• Pain, especially in the palms of the hands and soles of the feet
• Skin peeling or blistering

Treatment

Treatment for hand-foot syndrome primarily involves managing the symptoms. This can include:

• Using creams or lotions to soothe the skin
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers
• Avoiding activities that put pressure on the hands or feet
• In severe cases, the dose of the chemotherapy drug may be reduced or treatment may be delayed.

Prevention

Prevention strategies for hand-foot syndrome can include:

• Avoiding exposure to hot water
• Avoiding activities that cause friction or pressure on the hands or feet
• Using skin care products to keep the skin moisturized

See also

• Chemotherapy
• Biological therapy
• Capillaries
• Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia

Hand-foot syndrome Resources
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