Another cause of the skin peeling is sweating in your shoes. Just another site For this procedure, the patient is contained in a cabinet consisting 24 UVA fluorescent bulbs. The cause of keratolysis exfoliativa is unknown. A diagnosis of Keratolysis Exfoliativa may involve the following exams and procedures: A differential diagnosis may be necessary to eliminate other conditions that present similar signs and symptoms such as: Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. The latest research on exfoliative keratolysis suggests that there is a link between corneocytes and exfoliative keratolysis. ), Abdel-Hafez, K, Safer, AM, Selim, MM, Rehak, A. British Journal of Dermatology,7(2), 37-39. Though it looks like dry, peeling skin, water makes it worse. It is triggered by allergic reactions to substances, food or even air. A few cases witness skin peeling on face as well. It is possible that sweaty palms are to blame, as hyperhidrosis in the palms is more common. Speak to a dietician on MFine to know how changes in your food can help you address your situation today! Exfoliative keratolysis is such a problem that gives a bad feeling to the beholders of the affected hands. Exfoliative keratolysis can also be called "focal palmar peeling" or "keratolysis exfoliativa." In generic terms it's known as the "skin peeling disease." 143-4. For this scenario, only the affected hands or feet are soaked in methoxsalen solution for half an hour before it is being exposed to UVA rays. Make sure to clean hands to prevent bacteria from spreading and developing as it penetrates inside the open skin and worsesn the situation. Photograph of keratolysis exfoliativa on the hand. Patients typically complain of asymptomatic peeling on the palms (and occasionally the soles) that recurs every few weeks. Treatment for Keratolysis Exfoliativa in India doesnt require any major medical processes. If the patients condition worsens or becomes symptomatic, then the diagnosis should be questioned and it may be important to review the differential diagnosis and re-evaluate the patient to rule out other etiologies. In cases like this, it would be recommended to consult a physician for extensive treatment and care but their management can only be limited too as it is best to treat the condition on its early episodes. As a result, the disorder is already difficult to treat. Epub 2016 May 18. Once the scales and the redness heals, the condition hibernates. So, we should take care of the skin and look after the affected area gently. A few observable symptoms in India: Antibiotics could include: Clindamycin. This is a very common disease where the skin starts to peel off automatically causing eruptions and dryness to the palms of hands and, sometimes, to the soles of feet. Keratolysis exfoliativa is a common skin condition that causes the palms and soles to peel more intensely than usual. If you still have an odor coming from your feet after you wash your feet at the end of the day, its a sign that you have pitted keratolysis. Please enable it to take advantage of the complete set of features! In some cases, the following steps may be considered: The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information: https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/skin-disorders/, American Academy of Dermatology930 E. Woodfield Road Schaumburg, IL 60173Phone: (866) 503-SKIN (7546)Fax: (847) 240-1859Website: http://www.aad.org, https://dermnetnz.org/topics/keratolysis-exfoliativa/(accessed on 05/20/2021), https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keratolysis_exfoliativa (accessed on 05/20/2021). What type of shoes do you recommend I wear? Visit your healthcare provider if you have symptoms so they can offer treatment to remove the infection from your body. Athletes foot is a contagious fungal infection that causes an itchy rash on your feet. Common symptoms that accompany skin peeling are rashes, itching, dryness and other irritants. (1895). Keratolysis exfoliativa is a straightforward diagnosis; for any unusual clinical presentations, the correct diagnosis should be questioned. It is its own thing. Unable to load your collection due to an error, Unable to load your delegates due to an error. Ringworms No advanced study has been carried out about what might be the cause of exfoliative keratolysis. The condition does not limit itself to the hands. Firstly, exposure to allergens can cause the condition to develop as it can sometimes be a result of an allergic reaction. This oral Soriatane (Acitretin) has been reported as the only one effective drug that has shown improvementwhen used to treat this disease. Keratolysis exfoliativa. Picture 2: Palm with Exfoliative Keratolysis. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis. These lesions burst later to reveal a new layer of skin. Updated by Dr Oakley, December 2018. The Licensed Content is the property of and copyrighted by DSM. It is also wise to eat a healthy anti-inflammatory diet and maintain proper hygiene by cutting your nails on a regular basis and washing your hands and feet. Last modified on March 2021With inputs from Dr.Vedalatha Kakani, General Physician. The condition is recurring causing the skin to harden and become rough. It is important to note that prolonged healing occurs when the blisters centers on the base of the fingers due to consistent shredding and peeling of the skin. Bathwater PUVA in this scenario the patient soaks himself to a bath tub with water mixed with psoralen solution. References Hausauer AK, Cohen DE. 10 Most Common Nail Diseases And Disorders. The application of cucumber juice, aloe vera gel, witch hazel, or pineapple juice can also help improve exfoliative keratolysis. Take Care Of Your Nails At Home: Easy Pro Guide. The hand cream can prevent the excessive scales and dryness that lead to peeling from forming. After bursting, hand blisters will leave scales that look cracked and reddish. Reports the frequency of keratolysis exfoliativa in patients with atopic dermatitis.). Hausauer, A. K., & Cohen, D. E. (2015). No worries! If there is a component of primary hyperhidrosis, attempt to treat it with topical medication. To enhance improvement, add a few drops of anti-inflammatory essential oils to the hand bath. When keratin breaks down, it impairs the skins strength and elasticity. These peeled areas lack a normal barrier function and may become dry and cracked. A 21-year-old male asked: . However, the condition is recurrent sometime after the skin returns to normal. We present a 55-year-old woman with extensive disease on the hands and feet, who failed to respond to standard topical therapy but showed a marked dose-response improvement with the use of oral acitretin. Same-day slots available, Low waiting time, At-home care programs & blood tests, Easy access to doctors & dietitians, Our AI will help you assess your health status in 5 minutes, Understand your menstrual cycles & reproductive health better, Our presence identified by the fourth pillar of democracy, Cardiac Risk Assessment Test in Ahmedabad, Allergy Risk Assessment Test in Ahmedabad, Smoker's Risk Assessment Test in Ahmedabad, Bhakare Super Speciality Hospital and Research Institute. Exfoliative keratolysis will hibernate beneath the skin once the redness and scales have healed. The following are some of the better home remedies you can try: Natural hand soak: Soak your hands in an oatmeal bath for about 15 to 20 minutes daily to help improve exfoliative keratolysis symptoms like dry skin. Then, the blisters burstand it leaves a hollow and blank space underneath the skin. Dry skin keratolysis exfoliativa has no known causes in Indians but the condition is found in young adults who are active throughout the day. The condition requires no medical test and is detected by a well experienced dermatologist. If you have a condition that causes excessive sweating, like hyperhidrosis, your healthcare provider will offer additional treatment for your sweating to prevent pitted keratolysis from returning in the future. The most common types of bacteria that can cause infection include: These types of bacteria grow and thrive in warm and moist conditions, which is why it commonly affects your feet if youre wearing tight socks and shoes with minimal airflow. When the weather is so hot, it can cause skin peeling that may eventually lead to lamellar dyshidrosis and to prevent that it is strongly advised to apply lotion in the sensitive prone areas such as the fingers and the feet. How can I prevent this condition from returning in the future? Keratolytic creams containing urea, lactic acid, ammonium lactate or salicyclic acid. It is important to explain the natural history of keratolysis exfoliativa to the patient before initiating any treatment. Keratolysis Exfoliativa may be wrongly diagnosed as any of the following skin peeling off conditions: The skin thickens, hardens into a callus, dries out, and peels off. Your socks can play a role in how much air gets to your feet too. Keratolysis Exfoliativa is a fairly common skin condition that is characterized by localized peeling (exfoliation) of the outer layers of skin of the palms and soles. If the skins of the palms and the soles start to peel off, thats the first sign of exfoliative keratolysis. Sometimes, it lasts for only a few weeks and sometimes a number of months pass by without any relief. The diagnosis of keratolysis exfoliativa is made based on history and clinical examination. Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. SANGSTER, A. The condition rarely goes away on its own without treatment from your healthcare provider. In turn, the loss of strength causes the skin to exfoliate. 2015 Dec 16;21(12). Your use of this website constitutes acceptance of Haymarket Medias Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions. What is the treatment for keratolysis exfoliativa? Pompholyx or dyshidrotic eczema (differentiated by its chronic nature, associated pruritus, fissures, and lichenification seen on examination), 2. The condition causes discomfort in the skin that leads to persistent itching. British Journal of Dermatology, 167(5), 1076-1084. Acute exfoliative keratolysis: It is a primary stage of skin peeling of hands. Your healthcare provider will diagnose pitted keratolysis after reviewing your complete medical history and performing a physical exam to learn more about your symptoms. It is distinct from other diseases of volar skin, such as dyshidrosis, contact dermatitis, tinea, epidermolysis bullosa, and acral skin peeling. Avoid certain bathroom products: Stay away from products with substances that may contribute to exfoliative keratolysis, including solvents, antibacterial soaps, and certain fabrics. 2021 Mar;72(3):215-224. doi: 10.1007/s00105-021-04765-w. Epub 2021 Feb 12. To enhance improvement, add a few drops of anti-inflammatory essential oils to the hand bath. How to treat keratolysis exfoliativa? Because of this prevalent condition, the disease is sometimes mistaken for eczema. The etiology of keratolysis exfoliativa is unknown, but the condition appears to be worsened by heat or sweating. The number of cases for the condition of skin peeling off the body rises during the summer months and is usually seen in patients who have sweaty palms. Lifelong desquamation of the hands and feet. This should be reserved for severe or symptomatic patients, as otherwise the risks outweigh the benefits. Keratolysis exfoliativa (KE) is a palmoplantar eruption of air-filled bullae on an erythematous base, which results in lamellar peeling with hallmark superficial collarettes of scale. The patient should be aware of the conditions benign nature and understand that typically, it will improve over time without any treatment. Dry skin flakes blister and slough off, leaving behind . When your hands are covered in ruptured blisters, the first thing you want to know is the cause of this irritating skin condition. Clipboard, Search History, and several other advanced features are temporarily unavailable. Interference with other drugs you take, which prevents the medication from working effectively. They are also advised to take on protective goggles to shield the eyes from being exposed to the harmful radiation. If you suffer from this condition, you will see red plaques on the skin accompanied by skin peeling on feet and other affected areas. There has been no conventional drug proven to be effective to heal exfoliative keratolysis. In other words, treatment can only deal with the symptoms and signs associated with the condition. Its dangerous to apply at-home remedies to your skin without approval from your healthcare provider. Pits can cluster together to form a sore (lesion) that looks like a crater. 2. Provides a good description of the clinical features of recurrent focal palmar peeling and how to differentiate it from other conditions. There can be multiple layers of peeling skin (lamellae). If you take an antibiotic and dont see an improvement in your symptoms after a week, talk to your healthcare provider. Exfoliative keratolysis Staph infections And because of that, the condition is recurrent as the root problem of the disorder isnt directly addressed. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. There are no associated systemic implications or complications seen in patients with keratolysis exfoliativa. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. Visit the emergency room if you have symptoms of an allergic reaction from taking antibiotics, including: If you have a fear of patterns with a lot of holes (trypophobia), a pitted keratolysis diagnosis can be a trigger for your fear. Peeling skin syndrome (PSS), or keratolysis exfoliativa congenita, is an unusual autosomal recessive disease characterized by life-long, spontaneous superficial peeling of the skin that may be persistent or periodic.104-106 The Nikolsky sign tends to be positive. If possible, use drugs which can reduce sweating excessively. Youre most at risk of developing pitted keratolysis if you have sweaty feet and wear shoes with limited airflow. Some risk factors are more important than others. Washing your feet and hands with soap and water when you remove your shoes and socks. As a result, the skin begins to shred. official website and that any information you provide is encrypted Atopic dermatitis (eczema) White patch of skin or a patch thats lighter than your natural skin tone. Educating the patient on the benign nature of this condition is imperative, as often the patient merely wants a diagnosis and does not desire any further treatment. Athletes foot The peeled skin from the fingers and fingertips is often harder due to constant peeling before healing takes place. The same also occurs when the condition affects the palm or the soles of the feet. This is a very common disease where the skin starts to peel off automatically causing eruptions and dryness to the palms of hands and, sometimes, to the soles of feet. The following may be helpful: Protect the affected area from irritants Disclaimer. Copyright and all rights reserved. The odor caused by the infection occurs because the bacteria release a stinky sulfur compound. Tests arent always necessary, as pitted keratolysis has a distinct appearance on your skin, but your healthcare provider might offer tests to rule out similar conditions, which could include: Treatment for pitted keratolysis focuses on removing the bacterial infection from your body. It can also affect the whole fingers and fingertips at the advanced level. Keratolysis Exfoliativa isnt a condition that is of grave concern in India. In such situations, one may consult a doctor and use medication that is prescribed by them. Fans and air conditioning equipments are readily available to neutralize the heating process as lengthened periods of treatment tend to get very hot sometimes. Keratolysis exfoliativa generally presents in young active adults. Pemphigus As use of PUVA can be costly sometimes, some dermatologists recommend exposure to sunlight as it is safer compared to methoxsalen. How is keratolysis exfoliativa treated in India? Meaning, the signs are symptoms are treated but the underlying cause is not addressed. renowned by other titles, such as Lamellar dyshidrosis, recurrent focal palmar peeling and recurrent palmar peeling, keratolysis exfoliativa afflicts the palms of the hands and tender soles of the feet. sharing sensitive information, make sure youre on a federal Presently, it is not known to occur from genetic factors, even though a family history is occasionally noted. Also, be sure to clean your hands to keep bacteria from getting inside the cracks on your hands and fingers. The infection caused by wearing tight or restricting footwear and due to excessive sweating. When it comes to exfoliative keratolysis treatment, although moisturizers help, more advanced skin therapies may be needed to fully relieve symptoms. If you have any concerns with your skin or its treatment, see a dermatologist for advice. The cause of development of Keratolysis Exfoliativa is currently unknown. This can ensure that exfoliative keratolysis will not be exacerbated by secondary infections. 3. Eventually normal skin forms, but frequently exfoliative keratolysis recurs within a few weeks, Hausauer AK, Cohen DE. Although treatments are available, it is more of palliative. Most of the time, when a patient walks in for help, the disease has already worsened and has repeatedly recurred. Dermatol Online J. Urea is a natural moisturizing factor found in the outer epidermis. But, people spend a whole bunch of years without knowing that they are having this disease. In het boek wordt de geschiedenis beschreven van de Groningse leerstoel huid-en geslachtziekten van 15 september 1913, toen prof. dr. RA Reddingius bij Koninklijk Besluit werd, 466. In addition to the lactic acid content, hand creams used to treat the condition oftentimes also contain urea and silicone as well.. Keratolysis exfoliativa (dyshidrosis lamellosa sicca): a distinct peeling entity. There are also forms of exfoliative keratolysis natural treatment that may help relieve the condition. Others may associate it with hyperhidrosis. These ointments and lotions will help reduce the discomfort that causes itching in the skin. Photochemotherapy can be applied if the disease goes beyond control. | Find, read and cite all the research you . Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma Keratolysis exfoliativa (dyshidrosis lamellosa sicca): a distinct peeling entity. Causes and Treatment. arrow-right-small-blue Exfoliative keratolysis is the medical term of what we have commonly known as skin peeling disease. Want to talk to an expert regarding your diet? Dermatologica. You can soak your feet in a diluted mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water to clean your feet. Keratolysis exfoliativa is a innocuous but bothersome skin status in which the slim epidermis of the skin flakes, blisters and peels off. Pitted keratolysis is a bacterial infection that affects the skin on your feet. Coming to a Cleveland Clinic location?Hillcrest Cancer Center check-in changesCole Eye entrance closingVisitation, mask requirements and COVID-19 information, Notice of Intelligent Business Solutions data eventLearn more. American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Antibiotics treat the infection to remove the bacteria from your body. So, there is actually little room to apply drugs. All rights reserved. There are different ways to do the treatment. Eat the proper diet: It is best to eliminate processed foods and additives, fried foods, high-sugar foods, and common food allergens from the diet. Enjoying our content? Pitted keratolysis occurs as a result of a bacterial infection that causes smelly and itchy feet. As they do so, new skin is born out of the process. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Initially, it doesnt cause any pain or abnormality but gradually some air-filledblisters take over the skin of palms and/or soles. Keratolysis exfoliativa LAST UPDATED: Jul 14, 2021 Introduction Refer to the chapter Peeling skin conditions Disclaimer - the author PCDS cannot accept responsibility for any misleading or incorrect statements, and the management of individual patients remains the direct responsibility of the individual doctor. Exfoliative keratolysis Often misdiagnosed as psoriasis, eczema, or chronic contact dermatitis, exfoliative keratolysis is more common in children and young adults, in those with sweaty hands, and during the summer months. 2014 Jun;150(6):647-8. doi: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2013.9190. Use this soak for a few minutes. Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a chronic condition that affects the skin. Unauthorized use of these marks is strictly prohibited. The scales are also tender and dry after the skin has peeled off. Keratolysis exfoliativa does not improve with topical steroids, unlike hand dermatitis. Try to prevent sweating by using topical agents. When this is the case, it is best to consult your doctor for exfoliative keratolysis treatment. Your healthcare provider will prescribe topical antibiotics that you rub on your skin like a lotion. The treatment process in India does not require any surgery or frequent doctor visits. It has been regarded as a subtype of dyshidrotic eczema, a fungal infection or a dermatophytid reaction. Therefore, management of exfoliative keratolysis may still be limited, and treatment is quite difficult. Pitted keratolysis is a bacterial skin infection that causes a foul odor and itchiness. Arch Dermatol, 3(202), 11. In most cases the condition subsides on its own. A trial of potent (betamethasone dipropionate 0.05% or equivalent) or ultrapotent (clobetasol 0.05% or equivalent) topical corticosteroid applied twice daily for no more than 2 weeks could be attempted; however, these are typically not found to be very beneficial as this disease is characterized by a lack of inflammation. pii: 13030/qt6mv338nx. Some believe that it is more frequently associated with underlying atopic dermatitis, while others report an association with primary hyperhidrosis. The skin peeling associated with the condition can affect the palms of the hands, the tips of the fingers, and even the soles of the feet. European Journal of Pediatric Dermatology, 23(2), 125-125. The possible complications due to Keratolysis Exfoliativa include: Mild and localized cases of Keratolysis Exfoliativa may not require any medical intervention since the exfoliated areas are generally replaced by normal skin. The following factors may have a role to play in its formation and/or exacerbation: The signs and symptoms of Keratolysis Exfoliativa may include: Recurrence of the localized condition is observed within a few weeks. A patient complains of dry skin of the palm with initial air-filled blisters on fingers. If you regularly use essential oils, like tea tree oil, ask your healthcare provider before using it on your affected skin. Acral skin eruption observed during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: possible keratolysis exfoliativa with red palms and soles. The majority of patients, with only mild disease, can be treated with topical moisturizers or keratolytics and followed up as needed. Eating a healthy diet can be a good source of natural components which may heal the skin. Superficial Cutaneous Infections and Pyodermas. Registration is free. A bacterial infection causes pitted keratolysis. Changing your shoes and socks when they get wet. Palmoplantar pustulosis or palmoplantar psoriasis (distinguished by occasional involvement of typical psoriasis on other locations of the body, observation of pustules on exam, and the chronic nature of this disease), 3. Another is to be extra careful during outbreaks particularly summer season. MacKee, G. M., & Lewis, G. M. (1931). What causes keratolysis exfoliativa in Indians? Examples of these include urea 20% or 40% cream, ammonium lactate 12% cream, salicyclic acid 6% cream, and lactic acid 12% cream. PMC Bethesda, MD 20894, Web Policies Generally, the condition does not require any lab tests to be performed. One of the primary signs of the disease starts with bursting blisters, scales that peel and are circular in shape, and areas appear to be cracked and peeled too. Aloe vera juice is a completely natural moisturizer which can run the extra mile for your skin. 2012 Nov;167(5):107684. Hand dermatitis can be a very difficult condition to diagnosis due to the numerous conditions that mimic one another when presenting on the hands. Learn how we can help. Treatment for pitted keratolysis focuses on removing the bacterial infection from your body. To the best of our knowledge, this report is the first that documents the efficacy of the use of systemic acitretin in KE. government site. A dermatologist may recommend the use of keratolysis exfoliativa creams and keratolysis exfoliativa ointments. Talk to a doctor now . Acral Peeling Skin Syndrome: A Case Report and Literature Review. Skin peeling on hands is the first thing your general physician may notice before diagnosing you with Keratolysis Exfoliativa. The disruption and premature separation of corneocytes are responsible for this disease. Another is to be extra careful during outbreaks particularly summer season. The peeling may be painful in some cases and it is best to get it treated immediately. Key Points Common skin condition which often affects the palms Cause is unknown Initially consists of blisters on the palms and/or fingers, which burst causing areas of skin to peel. Fourthly, although unproven, medical researchers believe that extremely hot climate during summer increases episodes of perspiration. This disorder doesnt respond to any drugs except an oral Soriatane. Exfoliative keratolysis is a skin condition where there is frequent focal skin peeling on the palms of the hands, the surface of the fingers, and, less often, on the soles of the feet. Before Your body isnt able to stop future infections (. Epub 2020 Sep 10. (2020). In most cases the condition subsides on its own. The scaling gradually extends peripherally, leaving an adherent collarette. b. The condition may be seen around other parts of the body as well. How can you prevent exfoliative keratolysis? Allergic contact dermatitis (differentiated by its pruritic nature, response to topical steroids, inflammatory appearance with erythema on exam, and a possible exposure history), 4. - Conference Coverage (A study that characterizes the clinical characteristics of 108 atopic dermatitis patients with hand-foot dermatitis. Another sign of the condition is the appearance of skin tags. The formation of numerous skin tags will look like the skin from the hand is peeling. Some individuals have a family history of the disorder. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. Pitted keratolysis and athletes foot are both conditions that affect your feet. Australas J Dermatol. This process also involves the application of psoralensplant compounds that include trisoralen, 5-methoxypsoralen, and methoxsalen. Background: Keratolysis exfoliativa (KE), also known as dyshidrosis lamellosa sicca, is a palmoplantar dermatosis characterized by air-filled blisters and collarette desquamation. 2. Wende, G. W. (1919). In many cases, Keratolysis Exfoliativa may not require any treatment; the condition is also known to spontaneously resolve in a majority of individuals. Some Observations on Keratolysis Exfoliativa. A diet rich in Vitamin B may aid in avoiding the condition in India. Natural hand soak: Soak your hands in an oatmeal bath for about 15 to 20 minutes daily to help improve exfoliative keratolysis symptoms like dry skin. A CASE OF CONGENITAL EXFOLIATION OF THE SKIN.(KERATOLYSIS EXFOLIATIVA?). The peeling skin on hands and feet usually occurs when the temperature is hotter than normal. Lane, J. E. (1919). A person suffering from exfoliative keratolysis could experience sores and peeling skin; skin peeling occurs gradually over time resulting in formation of very dry and itchy skin. 3.Reasoning: a. Work or participate in activities where youre outdoors and on your feet for most of the day. A doctor can diagnose any disease by studying the history and symptoms of a patient keeping in mind that there might be some other risk factors too. She spends her free time reading books and watching TV series. Proper hand hygiene: Maintain hygiene with frequent cutting of your toenails and fingernails. Topical steroids are not known to be helpful, Phototherapy may be considered for severe cases, Avoid using soaps, detergents, and harsh chemicals, If seawater aggravates the condition, then minimizing or avoiding exposure to the same, Where possible, avoid activities that cause friction in the affected palms or soles, Try to use suitable gloves to protect the hands, where necessary, The prognosis of Keratolysis Exfoliativa is generally good as a majority of the cases are self-limited and a spontaneous resolution is noted, In some individuals, the condition may be severe with frequent recurrences being noted. Neri I, Patrizi A, Gabrielli L, Virdi A, Veronesi G, Corsini I, Lazzarotto T, Lanari M, Misciali C, Guglielmo A. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. How long does Exfoliative Keratolysis last? Although there has not been any studies to confirm it, it is very rampant around that time of the year. The process is usually painless but the underlying skin may get hard and rough because of the recurring condition. On the other hand, a skin that is prone to peel off can make your hands look ugly and dirty.
Food Cravings After Covid Vaccine, Articles K