Kyrle's disease. I. Clinical findings in five cases and review of literature.

Abstract

Five new cases of Kyrle's disease are presented, two with autopsy findings. With strict criteria, 12 of the 45 cases reported in the literature are acceptable as examples of Kyrle's disease. Hence a total of 17 cases are assessed for associated findings. Of ten patients evaluated for carbohydrate metabolism (including three unpublished cases) nine presented abnormal findings. This suggests a greater than chance association. Since six patients also presented with hepatic involvement, it is not yet clear whether the association is strictly between Kyrle's disease and diabetes. Hepatic disease and vitamin A metabolism may also be related. The possibility of a genodermatosis is considered.