2
4
5
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
Skin layers
Skin layers

Dyshidrotic eczema
Definition:
Dyshidrotic eczema is a condition in which small blisters that cause intense itching develop on the hands and feet.

Alternative Names:
Dyshidrosis; Pompholyx

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
The cause of dyshidrotic eczema is not known, but it occasionally appears to be seasonal. Small fluid filled blisters called vesicles appear on the hands and feet. They are most common along the edges of the fingers, toes, palms and soles. The vesicles produce intense itching. Scratching leads to skin changes with thickening. Scratching may also lead to secondary infections.
Symptoms:
  • Intense itching at the site of the blistering.
  • Cracks or fissures on the fingers or toes.
  • Pain may occur with larger blisters.
Signs and tests:

Your physician may often diagnose dyshidrotic eczema based upon the appearance of your skin. Occasionally, a skin biopsy or skin scraping may be needed to rule out other causes.
Treatment:
  • Moisturizers
  • Strong topical steroids
  • Avoid scratching
  • Oral anti-pruritics such as Atarax or Benadryl may alleviate itching
Expectations (prognosis):
Dyshidrotic eczema normally resolves without problems. Uninhibited scratching and skin trauma may lead to thick, irritated skin which is more difficult to treat and has a longer healing time.
Complications:
  • Secondary bacterial infection
  • Pain and itching which limits the use of the hands
Calling your health care provider:
Signs or symptoms of infection are present (tenderness, redness, warmth, or fever), or your rash does not clear with simple home therapy.
Review Date: 11/4/2001
Reviewed By: Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics (www.hiethics.com) and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
adam.com