Dyshidrotic Eczema

Dyshidrotic Eczema1

Dyshidrotic Eczema2

General Information
Dyshidrotic Eczema is a recurrent or chronic relapsing form of vesicular palmoplantar dermatitis. Of patients with dyshidrosis, 50% have atopic dermatitis. Occasionally prior to blistering of the skin, the patient may feel burning pain or pruritus. Occurrence of this type of dermatitis can be from once a month to once a year. The condition often appears related to other skin diseases (e.g., atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, allergy to ingested metals, dermatophyte infection, bacterial infection, environmental or emotional stress). Some mildly affected patients experience spontaneous resolution within 2-3 weeks. Topical corticosteroids is the preferred drug choice by most healthcare providers.

Epidemiology
5-20% of patients with hand eczema and more commonly occur in warmer climates and during spring and summer months

Etiology
Unknown

Pathogenesis
Small, itchy bumps that gradually progress to a rash made up of fluid-filled blisters (vesicles)

Clinical
Small, fluid-filled blisters (vesicles)

Histology
Spongiosis with an epidermal lymphocytic infiltrate and intraepidermal vesicles or bullae

Bibliography
1. “Dyshidrotic Eczema” (Online) June 2007 http://www.emedicine.com/derm/topic110.htm (visited: March 17, 2008) 2. “Dyshidrotic Eczema” (Online). May 2007 http://emedicine.com/ped/TOPIC1867.htm (visited: March 17, 2008)

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