Dyshidrotic Eczema
Lawrence Charles Parish
(ICD-9 705.81)
Symptoms and Signs
Patients with dyshidrotic eczema complain of itching or burning, which is sometimes intense. The hallmark of dyshidrotic eczema is deep-seated, clear blisters on the sides of the fingers (Fig. 6-1) and on the palms and soles. Because the epidermis is thicker in these areas, the blisters are deep and are often said to look like tapioca pudding. When they break, collarettes of scale are left behind that last 2 to 3 weeks. Sometimes, there is oozing and crusting. Dyshidrotic eczema may be associated with hyperhidrosis, atopic dermatitis, or contact dermatitis. Symptoms are worse in warm weather, but the condition may flare in winter if the skin is dry. The disease is also called pompholyx.