Dyshidrosis

Definition

Dyshidrotic eczema is a condition in which small, itchy blisters develop on the hands and feet.

Alternative Names

Causes

The cause is not known. The condition seems to appear during certain seasons.

Symptoms

Small fluid-filled blisters called vesicles appear on the hands and feet. They are most common along the edges of the fingers, toes, palms and soles. These blisters cause intense itching.

Scratching leads to skin changes and skin thickening. There may be cracks on the fingers or toes.

Large blisters may cause pain.

Exams and Tests

Your doctor may often diagnose this condition by simply looking at your skin.

Sometimes, a skin biopsy or skin scraping may be needed to rule out other causes.

Treatment

• Anti-itch medicines taken by mouth
• Moisturizers
• Strong steroid creams or ointments

Do not itch the blisters. You should avoid frequent bathing and irritating substances, which can make itching worse.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Dyshidrotic eczema normally goes away without problems, but symptoms may later return. Excess scratching may lead to thick, irritated skin, which is more difficult to treat and takes longer to heal.

Possible Complications

• Secondary bacterial infection
• Pain and itching that limits the use of the hands

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your doctor if you have tenderness, redness, warmth, or fever, which may be signs of a fever. You should also call your doctor if you have any type of rash that does not go away with simple home treatments.

Behrman RE. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 17th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004.

Habif TP. Clinical Dermatology. 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2004.