Posted on December 9, 2009 in Foot Problems
Dyshidrotic Eczema is defined as an itchy rash that may take form of small blisters on the hands and feet. These blisters are manifest usually on palms and sides of the fingers.
Dyshidrotic eczema (DE) also known as pompholyx, derived from ‘cheiropompholyx’, which means ‘hand and bubble’ in Greek.
Causes of DE: The cause of the disease is unknown. It is observed that the disease comes and goes with episodes more common in warm weather and in certain seasons of the year. Specialists believe that it may be allergic reaction caused by the sensitivity to nickle, balsam and cobalt.
Symptoms and Manifestations:
- Clearly visible blisters called vesicles are seen along the edges of the toes, palms, fingers and soles.
- The blisters cause intense urge for itching
- Skin changes and skin thickening may result due to scratching.
- Cracks manifest in due course of time on the fingers and toes.
- The blisters may become large and may cause pain and bleeding.
Diagnosis of DE:
This condition is examined by simply looking at the skin. In some cases skin biopsy or skin scraping is needed to rule out the possibility of fungal infection of the skin.
Treatment Options for DE:
The first step for the treatment is to keep the skin dry and cold. Avoid heat, sweating and moisture that can lead to itching. Some of the therapeutic options are:
- Dressings on the fluid filled blisters
- Topical steroids and moisturizers
- Chelating therapy
- Immune system suppressants
- Spraying of zinc oxide on the itching area
- Oral anti-pruritics
- Antihistamines and corticosteroids to reduce itching
- Phototherapy with psoralen
- Topical antibiotics to treat secondary infections.
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