What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Dyshidrotic Eczema
• Pompholyx
• Vesicular Palmar/Plantar Eczema

What is Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis is a type of eczema that affects the hands and feet, leading to the formation of blisters, fissures, and erosions. The condition can be acute, chronic, or recurrent
  • Acute Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis: The signs and symptoms occur within a few hours to days
  • Chronic Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis: The signs and symptoms can begin acutely, but remain for weeks and months
  • Recurrent Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis: The signs and symptoms usually last for many months and years. During this period, the symptoms may get better or worse periodically. In some cases, the symptoms completely disappear before reappearing again
• The cause of Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis is unknown, but it may be influenced by the presence of seasonal allergies, stress, exposure to certain metals, and strong chemicals and soaps
• The treatment of the condition involves the use of antihistamines, corticosteroid creams and other medications, and phototherapy. However, Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis is incurable and only symptomatic treatment may be provided
• The prognosis of Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis is generally good with suitable treatment; nevertheless, the condition tends to recur with ultimate remission after months or years

Who gets Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis can occur at any age, but is more common in adults
• Both males and females are affected
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic background may be affected. Worldwide, no geographical localization of the condition has been reported

What are the Risk Factors for Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis? (Predisposing Factors)

The following risk factors have been identified for Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis:

• Seasonal allergies such as hay fever
• Emotional stress
• Individuals who work in moist environment or with water - a constant contact with water can induce the condition
• Factory workers who are exposed to metals such as cobalt, chromium, and nickel
• Frequent hand washing
• Use of lotions or creams that have strong perfumes
• The use of certain laundry and dishwashing soaps

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis? (Etiology)

• The cause of development of Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis is presently unknown
• The condition is not contagious and does not spread from one individual to another through physical contact

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis?

The signs and symptoms of Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis may include:

• The presence of small blisters on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet
• The blisters are itchy and can be painful when they burst; there may be a burning sensation
• The skin lesions last for several weeks before getting better
• When one set of blisters heal, new blister sets may arise in other areas
• Difficulty and inconvenience performing simple physical tasks such as wearing one’s shoes, using one’s hands to hold a pen, etc.
• Despite the term ‘eczema’ in the name, some propose an overlap with palmar/plantar psoriasis

How is Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis may involve the following:

• A thorough medical history and physical examination
• Dermoscopy: It is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Potassium hydroxide (KOH) test: The KOH prep involves microscopic observation of skin scrapings for structures belonging to fungi
• Skin biopsy: A skin biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis?

The complications of Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis could include:

• Fungal, bacterial, or viral infections on the skin surface, due to bleeding and ulceration of the skin lesions
• Permanent scarring due to chronic itching
• Recurrence of the condition; Dyshidrotic Eczema can be a lifelong condition
• Individuals may have emotional and psychological stress, such as due to cosmetic issues 

How is Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis Treated?

There is no cure for Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis. Treatment is usually administered to manage the signs and symptoms and decrease its severity. The treatment measures may include the following:

• Use of antihistamines
• Steroidal applications and creams; oral steroids
• Petroleum jelly application can help decrease itching
• Clear Castellani’s Paint
• Ultraviolet phototherapy
• Mild cases can go away without treatment
• Follow-up care and regular monitoring of the condition may be essential

How can Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis be Prevented?

Currently, there are no known methods to prevent Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis occurrence. However, the following tips may be helpful in avoiding the condition:

• Do not scratch or pick the blisters
• Avoid environments that cause or exacerbate the condition
• Take adequate precaution, if you are susceptible to seasonal allergies
• Avoid frequent hand washing
• Factory workers should use safety gloves while handling chemicals and metals
• Use mild soaps, scents, and lotions

What is the Prognosis of Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis for Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis is good with appropriate treatment
• However, it is a lifelong condition that tends to recur; Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis may require lifelong management

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis:

• There is no evidence to prove that oily foods and chocolate-based products have an influence on Dyshidrotic Eczematous Dermatitis formation
• The presence of dirt on the body is not a causative factor for the condition. However, it helps to be clean and hygienic, which may help the condition from getting worse