Skin conditions are often overlooked, but these conditions can significantly impact the lives of individuals. Darier disease is a skin condition that results in the development of growths similar to warts. These wart-like growths are typically yellow and can be hard. It’s common for these growths to be slightly oily and give off an odor.
This condition, scientifically known as keratosis follicularis, typically presents itself during the early teen to early adult years. This condition has different degrees; some people will have more severe symptoms than others. Many people experience flare-ups, which are periods in which their symptoms worsen.
The environment is one of the most significant factors that can influence Darier's disease symptoms. People commonly experience heightened symptoms during the summer when they’re out in the sun frequently. Skin injuries and increased friction (such as scratching) can also lead to more blemishes.
There is still more to be learned about this condition. For example, researchers aren’t sure if there’s a correlation between Darier disease and certain neurological disorders. There may be a genetic link between these two things, but there isn’t enough research to know for sure.
Darier disease blemishes are often extensive and cover multiple areas of the body. Some individuals have symptoms only in a localized area, but this is rare.
There aren’t many statistics about this condition, but its prevalence greatly varies by area. This is likely due to a change in environmental factors between different places.
What Causes Darier Disease?
Darier disease is genetic and caused by mutations in the ATP2A2 gene, leading to impaired SERCA2 function, which involves calcium transport. Decreased calcium can lead to cellular stress response, resulting in a flare-up. Many people get this condition from one of their parents, but it is possible to have this diagnosis without a known family history. The condition can be exacerbated in individuals with the gene mutation through sunlight, heat, infections, and friction.1 Darier disease is not contagious and cannot be spread through contact. This genetic condition only manifests if an individual has a specific genetic mutation.
Darier Disease Signs & Symptoms
Individuals with this condition typically experience the following symptoms:
- Nail abnormalities
- Hair abnormalities
- Different skin pigmentation
- Divets in the soles of the feet
- Presence of blemishes, as mentioned previously
Many of the symptoms of this condition are visually present. If you identify with the symptoms, consider speaking with a doctor. You may still have this condition even if no one in your family does.
Can Cannabis Help Alleviate Symptoms of Darier Disease?
You may wonder about treatment options if you’ve been diagnosed with Darier disease. While there is no cure, many people work with their physician and use pharmaceutical products to help them manage their symptoms.
Others prefer more natural treatments, which raises the question of whether or not cannabis can be an effective treatment for Darier disease. Currently, there is not enough research to suggest that cannabis can either decrease or increase symptoms of this disease.
A 2016 study indicated that CBD might help mediate symptoms of autoimmune disorders and may be connected to the ATP2A2 gene, leading to the potential for individuals with Darier disease.2 Other early research from 2014 notes that CBD increases intracellular calcium concentrations, which may benefit those with Dariers, which is linked to decreases in calcium concentrations.3
Overall, while some individuals may find using cannabis helpful in alleviating the symptoms of Darier disease, there is not enough research to recommend cannabis as a treatment for the condition.
Legality and Doctor’s Recommendation
To determine if your state considers Darier disease a qualifying condition for medical Cannabis, check out our Laws & Regulations section for the medical cannabis rules for your state.
If you find that your state recognizes Darier disease or its symptoms as a qualifying medical condition, you can seek a doctor’s recommendation to get your medical cannabis card in your state.
How NuggMD Can Help
NuggMD is the nation's leading medical Cannabis technology platform, serving patients in over half the United States. We’ve connected over 2,000,000 patients with their new medical marijuana doctors face-to-face via our state-of-the-art telemedicine platform.
We believe that every human has the right to explore the benefits of medical cannabis and are fully committed to helping each patient explore all their options in their journey to wellness. For further information on whether you qualify for medical cannabis, select your state.
Can you use essential oils for Darier disease?
There isn’t much research to examine the impacts of essential oils on Darier disease. Speak with your doctor before using essential oils to ensure your safety.
If my parent has Darier disease, do I need to watch for symptoms?
Although having a family history of this condition can put you at higher risk for Darier disease, it isn’t guaranteed. If you have a parent diagnosed with the condition, it’s best to make sure your doctor is aware and to watch out for symptoms.
I used a topical cannabis product, and now I’m flaring up. What should I do?
If you are experiencing a Darier disease flare-up after using a cannabis topical, it may be best to stop using it. Speak with your doctor to help you decide whether topical cannabis products are right for you.
Resources
- Schmieder SJ, Rosario-Collazo JA. Keratosis Follicularis. In: StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing; 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519557
- Lee WS, Erdelyi K, Matyas C, et al. Cannabidiol Limits T Cell-Mediated Chronic Autoimmune Myocarditis: Implications to Autoimmune Disorders and Organ Transplantation. Mol Med. 2016;22:136-146. doi:10.2119/molmed.2016.00007
- Oláh A, Tóth BI, Borbíró I, et al. Cannabidiol exerts sebostatic and antiinflammatory effects on human sebocytes. The Journal of Clinical Investigation. 2014;124(9):3713-3724. doi:https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI64628
The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.
