Darier-White Disease (DAR)

Darier-White Disease (DAR)

OMIM number: 124200

Comments closing date: 19/08/2024

Darier's Disease is a rare skin condition that is characterised by changes in the way skin cells stick together in the upper layer of the skin. It can affect skin, nails and any mucous membrane. Symptoms usually start to appear before the third decade, sometimes as early as childhood. Common symptoms include lesions on the skin that can blister and weep, pits on the palms and soles, and bleeding under the skin. These can lead to an unpleasant odour being emitted. The condition can be incredibly painful and often leads to secondary viral, bacterial or fungal infection. Sufferers are at a higher risk of contracting Herpes Simplex Virus. Skin flare ups can happen at any time but are exacerbated by heat, sunlight and sweating. Due to the unpleasant and painful symptoms, sufferers are at higher risk of depression. Some families have also described learning and behavioural difficulties. Although rare, neurological disorders such as epilepsy and mild intellectual disorders have also been reported. Severity of symptoms can vary greatly between family members. There is no cure for Darier's Disease. There are treatments available to help manage the disease, however symptoms can worsen again after treatment.

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