Dyshidrosis – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Dyshidrosis (,[1] also known as "acute vesiculobullous hand eczema,"[2] "cheiropompholyx,"[3] "dyshidrotic eczema,"[3] "pompholyx,"[3] and "podopompholyx"[3]) is a skin condition that is characterized by small blisters on the hands or feet. It is an acute, chronic, or recurrent dermatosis of the fingers, palms, and soles, characterized by a sudden onset of many deep-seated pruritic, clear vesicles; later, scaling, fissures and lichenification occur. Recurrence is common and for many can be chronic. Incidence/prevalence is said to be 1/5,000 in the United States. However, many cases of eczema are diagnosed as garden-variety atopic eczema without further investigation, so it is possible that this figure is misleading.

This condition is not contagious to others, but the compromised integument can increase susceptibility to infection, and the accompanying itching can be a source of psychological distress.

The name comes from the word "dyshidrotic," meaning "bad sweating," which was once believed to be the cause, but this association is unproven; there are many cases present that have no history of excessive sweating. There are many different factors that may trigger the outbreak of dyshidrosis such as allergens, physical and/or mental stress, or seasonal changes.

Small blisters with the following characteristics:

Advanced stage of dyshidrosis on the fingers

Advanced stage of palmar dyshidrosis on the palm showing cracked and peeling skin

Advanced stage of dyshidrosis on the foot.

Rim of scale on the palmar surface of the thumb from a resolving dyshidrotic flare

Causes of dyshidrosis are unknown. However, a number of triggers to the condition may include:

There are many treatments available for dyshidrosis. However, few of them have been developed or tested specifically on the condition.

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Dyshidrosis - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia