Dyshidrotic Eczema

Dyshidrotic eczema is a hand/foot specific type of eczema that is often confused with athelete's foot.

Table of Contents

Overview

Dyshidrotic eczema is a hand/foot specific type of eczema that is often confused with athelete’s foot. Deeply-seated itchy blisters 1-2 mm in size may affect the foot. Pompholyx is another term used to describe the conition.

Symptoms /Appearance

  • Intense itchy small blisters
  • Blisters can be clusters with appearance of tapioca.
  • Blisters are clear to pink and fluid filled
  • May have oval red scales
  • Excess sweating can be present

Who gets it?

The condition affects teenagers and adults and may be acute, recurrent, or chronic. Males and females seem to be affected equally.

Clinical Course

Dyshidrotic eczema can be self-limited. However there are more chronic and severe forms that are debilitating due to resistence to treatment.

Risk Factors

  • Stress
  • Exposure to some metals
  • Allergy to dust mites
  • Family history of Eczema
  • Sensitive skin