Prayer nodules L85.9

Reactive, mechanically induced, grayish-yellow, dirty-looking skin thickening with hyperkeratosis that occurs in areas exposed to repeated mechanical stress during religious practices. 

The most commonly affected areas are the patellar region (“prayer knee”), typically among Muslims (and also occupationally among tile and parquet installers), as well as the forehead region (Muslims).  

Furthermore, verruciform plaques may also occur on the lateral malleoli and the metatarsophalangeal joints of the fifth metatarsal in people who regularly sit cross-legged on the floor. 

Avoid mechanical irritation (e.g. by padding). Nourishing externals like 2-5% urea cream R102.

1. O'Goshi KI et al (1998) Mucin deposition in a prayer nodule on the forehead. Dermatology 196:364.