Dyshidrotic Eczema

Dyshidrotic eczema (otherwise known as pompholyx) is a condition in which small fluid-filled blisters, that cause intense itching, develop on the hands and feet. They are most common along the edges of the fingers, toes, palms and soles. The cause of dyshidrotic eczema is not known, but is thought to have a clinical reaction pattern, brought about by certain substances, such as nickel. Stress too, can be a major factor in dyshidrotic eczema. The hands are affected in isolation in 80% of cases, the feet solely (pardon the pun!) in 10% of cases and both the hands and feet in the remaining 10% of cases of dyshidrotic eczema.

Fungal infections of the feet has been reported in up to 30% of cases of Dyshidrotic eczema. However, even if you do have a fungal infection of your feet, it is not necessarily the cause of your Dyshidrotic eczema! Watery fluid fills what are known as the vesicles, situated in the upper layer of the skin, also referred to as the epidermis. Excessive exposure to skin irritants such as soap, or a washing powder of some description, are potential starting points for the development of this form of eczema. The principal treatment of Dyshidrotic eczema is to stop it at source; consequently if the origin can not be traced, then the treatment becomes indicative. It is mostly treated with a low potency corticosteroid, combined with the frequent application of moisturisers. Other treatment options include light therapy and in severe cases, oral prednisolone can be used in a short dosage.