The case of a 10 year-old Japanese boy with erythrokeratodermia variabilis is reported in addition to a review of the Japanese literature. The patient was first examined in our clinic on October 21, 1965, because of generalized hyperkeratotic lesions and erythematous lesions which had persisted since he was 3 months old. Hyperkeratotic and verrucous lesions were noted on his auricles and trunk, on which there were also sharply demarcated erythematous lesions of various sizes and shapes which were not elevated from the adjacent skin. Laboratory findings were within normal limits. Histopathological examination revealed a remarkable hyperkeratosis with a basket weave appearance, moderate acanthosis and a slightly thickened granular layer. Polyethylenglycol 400 and corticosteroid ointment were slightly beneficial to the hyperkeratotic lesions.