Dyshidrotic Eczema

Dyshidrotic eczema is a skin condition characterized by the sudden onset of itchy, tapioca-like vesicles on the palms of the hands and/or soles of the feet. Scaling, cracking, and thickening of the affected skin may occur later in the disease and can be painful. The cause is unknown, but it can be associated with atopic dermatitis and allergic conditions like asthma and hay fever.

Physical Exam

The small fluid-filled blisters are usually located on the palms, sides of the fingers, soles and sides of the toes and are very itchy. The blisters usually last about 3 weeks. Early in the condition, the cluster of bumps may cause blisters. Secondary infections can occur and result in crusting and pustule formation.

Treatment

• Limit exposure to water and irritants (soaps)
• Moisturizers
• Topical corticosteroids
• Immune-modulating ointments like tacrolimus (Protopic) or pimecrolimus (Elidel)
• Antibiotics for treatment of secondary infections
• Henry Ford Phototherapy