Finger

Red rash in between fingers. Dyshidrotic Eczema: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Red Rash Between Fingers

What causes dyshidrotic eczema. How is dyshidrotic eczema diagnosed. What are the symptoms of dyshidrotic eczema. How can dyshidrotic eczema be treated. What are effective prevention methods for dyshidrotic eczema.

Understanding Dyshidrotic Eczema: An Overview

Dyshidrotic eczema, also known as pompholyx or vesicular eczema, is a chronic skin condition that primarily affects the hands and feet. It is characterized by the development of small, itchy blisters on the palms, sides of fingers, and soles of feet. This condition can be particularly distressing for those who experience it, as it can cause significant discomfort and interfere with daily activities.

What sets dyshidrotic eczema apart from other forms of eczema? Unlike atopic dermatitis, which can occur anywhere on the body, dyshidrotic eczema specifically targets the hands and feet. The blisters associated with this condition are typically small, about the size of a pinhead, and filled with clear fluid. As the condition progresses, these blisters may merge to form larger ones, leading to increased pain and discomfort.

Identifying the Symptoms of Dyshidrotic Eczema

Recognizing the symptoms of dyshidrotic eczema is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management. What are the telltale signs of this condition?

  • Small, itchy blisters on the palms, sides of fingers, and soles of feet
  • Intense itching and burning sensation
  • Redness and inflammation around the affected areas
  • Scaling and peeling of the skin as blisters heal
  • Cracking and fissures in severe cases
  • Possible nail changes, including thickening or discoloration

It’s important to note that the severity and duration of symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. Some individuals may experience mild, occasional flare-ups, while others may deal with chronic, severe symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life.

Exploring the Causes and Risk Factors of Dyshidrotic Eczema

While the exact cause of dyshidrotic eczema remains unknown, researchers have identified several factors that may contribute to its development or exacerbation. What triggers dyshidrotic eczema?

  1. Stress: Emotional stress is often cited as a common trigger for flare-ups
  2. Allergies: Contact with allergens may provoke an outbreak
  3. Moisture: Excessive sweating or prolonged exposure to water can worsen symptoms
  4. Climate: Hot and humid weather may increase the likelihood of flare-ups
  5. Metals: Exposure to certain metals, particularly nickel, can trigger symptoms in some individuals
  6. Genetics: There may be a hereditary component to the condition

Understanding these potential triggers can help individuals better manage their condition and reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups. It’s worth noting that triggers can vary from person to person, and what exacerbates symptoms in one individual may not affect another.

Diagnosing Dyshidrotic Eczema: What to Expect

How is dyshidrotic eczema diagnosed? The process typically involves a thorough examination by a dermatologist or healthcare professional. They will assess the appearance of the skin, the location of the rash, and the presence of blisters. In most cases, a visual inspection is sufficient for diagnosis.

However, in some instances, additional tests may be necessary to rule out other conditions or identify potential triggers. These may include:

  • Skin biopsy: A small sample of skin is taken and examined under a microscope
  • Patch testing: Used to identify potential allergens that may be triggering symptoms
  • Fungal culture: To rule out fungal infections that may mimic dyshidrotic eczema

It’s crucial to provide your healthcare provider with a detailed history of your symptoms, including when they first appeared, any potential triggers you’ve noticed, and any treatments you’ve tried. This information can help guide the diagnosis and treatment plan.

Effective Treatment Strategies for Dyshidrotic Eczema

While there is no cure for dyshidrotic eczema, various treatment options can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of flare-ups. What are the most effective treatments for dyshidrotic eczema?

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments are often the first line of defense against dyshidrotic eczema. These may include:

  • Corticosteroid creams or ointments: To reduce inflammation and itching
  • Calcineurin inhibitors: Non-steroidal medications that suppress the immune response in the skin
  • Moisturizers: To keep the skin hydrated and prevent cracking

Oral Medications

In more severe cases, oral medications may be prescribed:

  • Antihistamines: To relieve itching
  • Oral corticosteroids: For short-term use in severe flare-ups
  • Immunosuppressants: In cases that don’t respond to other treatments

Light Therapy

Phototherapy, or light therapy, may be recommended for some patients. This involves exposing the affected skin to controlled amounts of UVA or UVB light.

Alternative Therapies

Some individuals find relief through alternative therapies such as:

  • Aloe vera: For its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties
  • Chamomile: As a natural anti-inflammatory agent
  • Acupuncture: To potentially reduce stress and inflammation

It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, especially alternative therapies, to ensure safety and efficacy.

Prevention Strategies: Minimizing Flare-Ups

While it may not be possible to prevent dyshidrotic eczema entirely, there are several strategies that can help minimize flare-ups and reduce their severity. What are some effective prevention methods for dyshidrotic eczema?

  1. Identify and avoid triggers: Keep a journal to track potential triggers and avoid them when possible
  2. Manage stress: Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises
  3. Protect your hands: Wear gloves when washing dishes or coming into contact with potential irritants
  4. Maintain proper hand hygiene: Use lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soaps
  5. Keep skin moisturized: Apply a thick, emollient-rich moisturizer regularly
  6. Avoid excessive hand washing: While hygiene is important, excessive washing can dry out the skin
  7. Control sweating: Use antiperspirants and wear moisture-wicking fabrics

By incorporating these preventive measures into daily routines, many individuals find they can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of their dyshidrotic eczema flare-ups.

Living with Dyshidrotic Eczema: Coping Strategies and Support

Dealing with a chronic skin condition like dyshidrotic eczema can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. How can individuals cope with the ongoing management of this condition?

  • Educate yourself: Understanding your condition can help you feel more in control
  • Join support groups: Connect with others who share similar experiences
  • Practice self-care: Prioritize activities that promote overall well-being
  • Communicate with loved ones: Let friends and family know how they can support you
  • Work with your healthcare team: Regular check-ins can help optimize your treatment plan

It’s important to remember that while dyshidrotic eczema can be frustrating to manage, many individuals successfully control their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. With the right treatment plan and support system, it’s possible to minimize the impact of this condition on daily life.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Dyshidrotic Eczema

While many cases of dyshidrotic eczema can be managed at home with over-the-counter treatments and lifestyle modifications, there are instances when professional medical attention is necessary. When should you consult a healthcare provider about your dyshidrotic eczema?

  • If symptoms persist or worsen despite home treatment
  • If you develop signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or pus
  • If the condition is significantly impacting your quality of life or daily activities
  • If you experience frequent or severe flare-ups
  • If you’re unsure about the diagnosis or want to explore additional treatment options

Remember, early intervention can often lead to better management of symptoms and prevent complications. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a dermatologist or healthcare provider if you have concerns about your condition.

Dyshidrotic Eczema vs. Other Skin Conditions: Understanding the Differences

Dyshidrotic eczema can sometimes be confused with other skin conditions that affect the hands and feet. How does it differ from these other conditions?

Dyshidrotic Eczema vs. Contact Dermatitis

While both conditions can cause red, itchy rashes on the hands, contact dermatitis is typically triggered by direct contact with an irritant or allergen. Dyshidrotic eczema, on the other hand, is characterized by small, fluid-filled blisters and may not have an obvious external trigger.

Dyshidrotic Eczema vs. Psoriasis

Psoriasis typically causes thick, scaly patches on the skin, while dyshidrotic eczema produces small blisters. Psoriasis can affect any part of the body, while dyshidrotic eczema is limited to the hands and feet.

Dyshidrotic Eczema vs. Fungal Infections

Fungal infections like athlete’s foot can also cause itching and blistering on the feet. However, fungal infections are caused by microorganisms and can be treated with antifungal medications, unlike dyshidrotic eczema.

Understanding these distinctions can help individuals and healthcare providers arrive at an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

The Impact of Dyshidrotic Eczema on Quality of Life

Dyshidrotic eczema can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. How does this condition affect daily activities and emotional well-being?

  • Physical discomfort: Itching, pain, and blistering can interfere with everyday tasks
  • Occupational challenges: Some jobs may exacerbate symptoms or be difficult to perform during flare-ups
  • Social implications: Visible symptoms may cause self-consciousness or social anxiety
  • Sleep disturbances: Itching and discomfort can interfere with sleep quality
  • Emotional toll: Chronic symptoms can lead to frustration, anxiety, or depression

Recognizing these impacts is crucial for developing comprehensive management strategies that address both the physical and emotional aspects of living with dyshidrotic eczema. Healthcare providers may recommend psychological support or counseling as part of a holistic treatment approach.

Research and Future Directions in Dyshidrotic Eczema Treatment

As our understanding of dyshidrotic eczema continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new treatment options and management strategies. What are some promising areas of research in dyshidrotic eczema?

  • Targeted biologics: Medications that specifically target components of the immune system involved in eczema
  • Microbiome research: Investigating the role of skin bacteria in eczema development and potential probiotic treatments
  • Gene therapy: Exploring genetic factors that contribute to eczema susceptibility
  • Novel topical treatments: Developing new formulations with improved efficacy and fewer side effects
  • Personalized medicine: Tailoring treatments based on individual genetic and environmental factors

While these areas of research hold promise, it’s important to note that developing new treatments takes time and rigorous testing. Individuals currently managing dyshidrotic eczema should continue to work closely with their healthcare providers to optimize their current treatment plans while staying informed about emerging options.

In conclusion, dyshidrotic eczema is a complex skin condition that requires a multifaceted approach to management. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options, individuals can work towards better control of their condition and improved quality of life. As research continues to advance our understanding of this condition, there is hope for even more effective treatments in the future.

Causes and when to speak with a doctor

Hand rashes can result from allergic reactions, exposure to irritants, and sunburn. Health conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, can also cause hand rashes. Treatment will depend on the cause.

In this article, we look at the possible causes of a rash on a person’s hands and when to seek medical help.

Below are images of different rashes on the hands from a variety of causes.

Contact dermatitis is a condition that causes changes in skin color, itching, and irritation. Irritant contact dermatitis results from direct exposure to substances and accounts for around 80% of dermatitis cases.

These substances directly affect the skin and may cause rashes on the hands if this is the site of exposure.

Common skin irritants include:

  • hand soaps
  • rubber or latex gloves
  • nickel and gold jewelry
  • citrus and other natural acids

Contact dermatitis usually goes away once people remove the irritant.

Discover some triggers of contact dermatitis in this article.

Several substances can cause minor allergic reactions on the skin. These substances may affect the hands when a person is gardening, using a new lotion, or having exposure to a chemical with which they have an allergy.

In allergic contact dermatitis, the immune system overreacts following contact with these substances, causing a rash, swelling, and irritation. This differs from irritant contact dermatitis, where the substances themselves cause symptoms.

It is possible to treat many minor allergic reactions at home. Learn how here.

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life threatening allergic reaction that causes the body’s immune system to react aggressively to a substance. It sometimes begins with a slightly swollen rash similar to hives.

If the rash spreads quickly, it can lead to more severe symptoms, such as a swollen throat and trouble breathing.

A person who suddenly develops a rash following a sting, new medication, or exposure to another new substance should immediately contact a healthcare professional.

Anaphylaxis is a life threatening condition. Learn more here.

Hives often appear as raised, dumpy rashes. The bumps are itchy and may appear lighter when someone presses on them. The condition can result from irritant and allergen exposure, underlying health conditions, and other physical triggers.

Hives can be acute or chronic, and nearly 20% of people will experience the condition at some time in their lives. The medical term for hives is urticaria.

Find out what causes hives and how to treat them.

Eczema, sometimes called atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition. It causes scaly patches on the skin that may be darker or lighter than the rest of the skin. The patches may be all over the body or just in one place, such as the hands.

The rash often itches and may worsen when the skin is dry or during cold or dry weather. Eczema is more common in children than in adults. After childhood, eczema typically goes away by itself, but many individuals can have the condition in adulthood.

There is a variety of eczema types. Learn more here.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes an overgrowth of skin cells. This can cause rashes, inflammation, and raised, scaly, patches of skin known as plaques. The condition can occur in any part of the body.

Psoriasis tends to appear pink or red on those with light or fair skin tones, with scales appearing silvery-white. On medium skin tones, it can appear salmon-colored and feature silvery-white scales. On darker skin tones, psoriasis could look violet with gray scales or appear dark brown and difficult to see.

Psoriasis on the hands may also affect the nails. People with the condition on their hands may develop the rash elsewhere, such as on the scalp.

There is no cure for psoriasis, but some medications can help manage the condition.

More information on psoriasis is available here.

Exposure to sunlight can cause sunburn on any part of the body. Clothing rarely covers the hands, so it is important that people remember to apply sun cream to the back of their hands, fingers, and wrists when applying to the rest of the body.

Sunburn may hurt at first and then begin itching. The skin may look dry, blister, or peel. Sunburn can affect all people, although those with lighter skin have a higher risk of burning.

Find out how sunburn affects dark skin here.

Several genetic conditions can cause the skin on their hands to peel continuously. This peeling will often be painless, but it may result in swelling, skin discoloration, and localized discomfort.

The peeling may worsen during the summer or after frequent handwashing or exposure to water.

Learn more about peeling skin here.

Tinea manuum is a type of fungal infection of the hands, similar to athlete’s foot. It usually causes a rash with a raised border.

A person may contract the infection from a person, animal, or soil with tinea manuum or from touching the feet of someone with athlete’s foot. The rash is usually very itchy and can cause the nails to discolor or look misshapen.

More information about tinea manuum is available here.

Lichen planus is a common inflammatory skin condition. It causes swelling, discoloration of the skin, and bumps. It can affect any part of the body, including the mouth and scalp, but some people first notice the rash on their wrists or hands.

Find out all there is to know about lichen planus here.

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin’s deeper layers. If bacteria enter the skin, it can cause cellulitis.

A range of diseases or injuries can allow bacteria to penetrate the skin. A person can get cellulitis even after minor injuries, such as a cut from a razor or a bee sting.

Cellulitis may resemble a rash because it looks swollen and discolored, but it is a dangerous infection that can spread quickly.

Find out more about cellulitis here.

Treatment depends on the cause of the rash. It is usually safe to treat minor conditions, such as contact dermatitis and eczema, at home. The most common treatments include:

  • steroid creams
  • calamine lotion
  • colloidal oatmeal
  • moisturizers
  • reducing sun exposure in cases of sunburn
  • antifungal creams for fungal infections.

It is not possible to prevent all rashes. However, below are some strategies that may help:

  • Use fragrance-free moisturizers to reduce the risk of irritation and allergic reactions.
  • If a person has eczema, use a formulated cream, especially after washing hands.
  • Wear gloves when working in the yard or using irritating chemicals.
  • Avoid using medications, including medicated creams, unless necessary. This can reduce the risk of a medication-induced allergic reaction.

People should consult a doctor regarding any rash that does not go away on its own with home treatment. They should also seek medical attention if a rash starts spreading.

A person should call a healthcare professional immediately if:

  • they have a fever and rash, or the rash shows signs of infection such as pus or oozing
  • the rash is painful but not itchy
  • the skin is very swollen
  • they have other symptoms, such as symptoms of a cold or the flu
  • a rash appears all over the body, especially after an insect sting or taking medication
  • a person has a rash and has trouble breathing

Various substances, conditions, and infections can cause rashes on the hands.

Most rashes are not serious and will go away independently, even without treatment. If a rash hurts, appears suddenly, or does not go away, it may indicate a more serious problem.

Prompt medical treatment may ease the pain and treat the rash.

Causes and when to speak with a doctor

Hand rashes can result from allergic reactions, exposure to irritants, and sunburn. Health conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, can also cause hand rashes. Treatment will depend on the cause.

In this article, we look at the possible causes of a rash on a person’s hands and when to seek medical help.

Below are images of different rashes on the hands from a variety of causes.

Contact dermatitis is a condition that causes changes in skin color, itching, and irritation. Irritant contact dermatitis results from direct exposure to substances and accounts for around 80% of dermatitis cases.

These substances directly affect the skin and may cause rashes on the hands if this is the site of exposure.

Common skin irritants include:

  • hand soaps
  • rubber or latex gloves
  • nickel and gold jewelry
  • citrus and other natural acids

Contact dermatitis usually goes away once people remove the irritant.

Discover some triggers of contact dermatitis in this article.

Several substances can cause minor allergic reactions on the skin. These substances may affect the hands when a person is gardening, using a new lotion, or having exposure to a chemical with which they have an allergy.

In allergic contact dermatitis, the immune system overreacts following contact with these substances, causing a rash, swelling, and irritation. This differs from irritant contact dermatitis, where the substances themselves cause symptoms.

It is possible to treat many minor allergic reactions at home. Learn how here.

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life threatening allergic reaction that causes the body’s immune system to react aggressively to a substance. It sometimes begins with a slightly swollen rash similar to hives.

If the rash spreads quickly, it can lead to more severe symptoms, such as a swollen throat and trouble breathing.

A person who suddenly develops a rash following a sting, new medication, or exposure to another new substance should immediately contact a healthcare professional.

Anaphylaxis is a life threatening condition. Learn more here.

Hives often appear as raised, dumpy rashes. The bumps are itchy and may appear lighter when someone presses on them. The condition can result from irritant and allergen exposure, underlying health conditions, and other physical triggers.

Hives can be acute or chronic, and nearly 20% of people will experience the condition at some time in their lives. The medical term for hives is urticaria.

Find out what causes hives and how to treat them.

Eczema, sometimes called atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition. It causes scaly patches on the skin that may be darker or lighter than the rest of the skin. The patches may be all over the body or just in one place, such as the hands.

The rash often itches and may worsen when the skin is dry or during cold or dry weather. Eczema is more common in children than in adults. After childhood, eczema typically goes away by itself, but many individuals can have the condition in adulthood.

There is a variety of eczema types. Learn more here.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes an overgrowth of skin cells. This can cause rashes, inflammation, and raised, scaly, patches of skin known as plaques. The condition can occur in any part of the body.

Psoriasis tends to appear pink or red on those with light or fair skin tones, with scales appearing silvery-white. On medium skin tones, it can appear salmon-colored and feature silvery-white scales. On darker skin tones, psoriasis could look violet with gray scales or appear dark brown and difficult to see.

Psoriasis on the hands may also affect the nails. People with the condition on their hands may develop the rash elsewhere, such as on the scalp.

There is no cure for psoriasis, but some medications can help manage the condition.

More information on psoriasis is available here.

Exposure to sunlight can cause sunburn on any part of the body. Clothing rarely covers the hands, so it is important that people remember to apply sun cream to the back of their hands, fingers, and wrists when applying to the rest of the body.

Sunburn may hurt at first and then begin itching. The skin may look dry, blister, or peel. Sunburn can affect all people, although those with lighter skin have a higher risk of burning.

Find out how sunburn affects dark skin here.

Several genetic conditions can cause the skin on their hands to peel continuously. This peeling will often be painless, but it may result in swelling, skin discoloration, and localized discomfort.

The peeling may worsen during the summer or after frequent handwashing or exposure to water.

Learn more about peeling skin here.

Tinea manuum is a type of fungal infection of the hands, similar to athlete’s foot. It usually causes a rash with a raised border.

A person may contract the infection from a person, animal, or soil with tinea manuum or from touching the feet of someone with athlete’s foot. The rash is usually very itchy and can cause the nails to discolor or look misshapen.

More information about tinea manuum is available here.

Lichen planus is a common inflammatory skin condition. It causes swelling, discoloration of the skin, and bumps. It can affect any part of the body, including the mouth and scalp, but some people first notice the rash on their wrists or hands.

Find out all there is to know about lichen planus here.

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin’s deeper layers. If bacteria enter the skin, it can cause cellulitis.

A range of diseases or injuries can allow bacteria to penetrate the skin. A person can get cellulitis even after minor injuries, such as a cut from a razor or a bee sting.

Cellulitis may resemble a rash because it looks swollen and discolored, but it is a dangerous infection that can spread quickly.

Find out more about cellulitis here.

Treatment depends on the cause of the rash. It is usually safe to treat minor conditions, such as contact dermatitis and eczema, at home. The most common treatments include:

  • steroid creams
  • calamine lotion
  • colloidal oatmeal
  • moisturizers
  • reducing sun exposure in cases of sunburn
  • antifungal creams for fungal infections.

It is not possible to prevent all rashes. However, below are some strategies that may help:

  • Use fragrance-free moisturizers to reduce the risk of irritation and allergic reactions.
  • If a person has eczema, use a formulated cream, especially after washing hands.
  • Wear gloves when working in the yard or using irritating chemicals.
  • Avoid using medications, including medicated creams, unless necessary. This can reduce the risk of a medication-induced allergic reaction.

People should consult a doctor regarding any rash that does not go away on its own with home treatment. They should also seek medical attention if a rash starts spreading.

A person should call a healthcare professional immediately if:

  • they have a fever and rash, or the rash shows signs of infection such as pus or oozing
  • the rash is painful but not itchy
  • the skin is very swollen
  • they have other symptoms, such as symptoms of a cold or the flu
  • a rash appears all over the body, especially after an insect sting or taking medication
  • a person has a rash and has trouble breathing

Various substances, conditions, and infections can cause rashes on the hands.

Most rashes are not serious and will go away independently, even without treatment. If a rash hurts, appears suddenly, or does not go away, it may indicate a more serious problem.

Prompt medical treatment may ease the pain and treat the rash.

Fungus on the feet – prevention and effective treatment

Epidermophytosis of the feet is a group of fungal diseases that have a common localization and similar clinical manifestations. Very common and affect people of any age (rarely children) prone to chronic relapsing course.

Infection occurs in baths, showers, on beaches, gyms, when using someone else’s shoes and other household items contaminated with fungal elements.

In the pathogenesis of the disease, the anatomical and physiological features of the skin of the feet, increased sweating, changes in the chemistry of sweat, metabolic and endocrine abnormalities, injuries of the lower extremities, and vegetative dystonia are of great importance. Pathogens can be in a saprophytic state for a long time without causing active clinical manifestations. Athlete’s foot has several clinical forms, each of which can be combined with nail lesions.

Symptoms and course

The process most often begins in the interdigital spaces, mainly between the most closely adjacent 4th and 5th fingers. When you feel a slight itch at the bottom of the interdigital fold, a strip of swollen and slightly flaky epidermis appears. After 2-3 days, a small crack appears here, releasing a small amount of serous fluid. Sometimes the stratum corneum falls off, exposing a pink-red surface. The disease, gradually progressing, can spread to all interdigital folds, the plantar surface of the fingers and adjacent parts of the foot itself. The serous fluid seeping to the surface serves as an excellent nutrient material for the further reproduction of fungi.

When fungi enter through the disturbed stratum corneum into the deeper parts of the epidermis, the process is complicated by an eczematous reaction. Numerous, strongly itchy, clear fluid-filled blisters appear, which merge and erode in places, leaving weeping areas.

The process can move to the back surface of the foot and fingers, the sole, capturing its arch to the very heel. The disease, then weakening, then again intensifying, without proper treatment and care, can drag on for many years. Often, this is accompanied by a complication of a secondary pyogenic infection: the transparent contents of the vesicles become purulent, the inflammatory redness intensifies and spreads beyond the boundaries of the lesion, the foot becomes edematous, the patient’s movements are difficult or impossible due to severe pain; subsequent complications may develop in the form of lymphangitis, lymphadenitis, erysipelas, etc.

In some cases, epidermophytosis on the soles is expressed by the appearance on the initially unchanged skin of separate groups of itchy, deeply located, dense to the touch blisters and blisters with transparent or slightly cloudy contents. After their spontaneous opening, the cover of the bubbles disappears, remaining in the form of a corolla only along the edges of the lesion; the central parts have a smooth, pink-red color, slightly flaky, less often – a weeping surface; often new bubbles appear on it. Due to their merger, the lesion expands and can capture significant areas of the soles.

The absorption of allergens (fungi and their toxins) is a sensitizing factor for the whole organism, increases the sensitivity of the skin, and an allergic rash may appear on it. It is more often observed on the hands (palms). Sharply limited erythematous discs are formed, dotted with a large number of small bubbles with transparent contents, which burst, exposing an erosive, weeping surface surrounded by a widening rim of swollen and exfoliating epidermis. Fungi are not usually found in these lesions.

Epidermophytosis of the feet begins mainly in the summer. Increased sweating, insufficient drying of the interdigital spaces after bathing contribute to the introduction of the fungus.

The defeat of the nails with mycosis of the feet is observed mainly on the 1st and 5th fingers, usually starting from the free edge. The nail is thickened, has a yellowish color and a jagged edge. Gradually, more or less pronounced subungual hyperkeratosis develops.

Treatment

Particular attention should be paid to the careful processing of lesions.

The patient should take daily warm foot baths with potassium permanganate. In this case, it is necessary to remove the crusts, open the blisters, cut off the fringe along the edges of the erosion, as well as the covers of festering blisters. After the bath, wet-drying dressings or lotions are applied with an aqueous solution of copper sulfate (0.1%) and zinc (0. 4%) or with a 1% aqueous solution of resorcinol. After wetting stops, dermozolon, mycosolone, and then alcoholic fungicidal solutions, Castellani paint, and, finally, if necessary, fungicidal pastes and ointments, are applied.

The effectiveness of treatment depends not so much on the choice of a pharmacological drug, but on their correct, consistent use in accordance with the nature of the inflammatory reaction.

Fungicidal treatment is carried out until the test results for fungi are negative.

Extremely important is the anti-relapse treatment carried out within a month after the elimination of the lesions – wiping the skin of the feet with 2% salicylic or 1% thymol alcohol and dusting with 10% boric powder. For the same purpose, it is necessary to thoroughly wipe the inner surface of the shoe with a formaldehyde solution, wrap it for 2 days in an airtight fabric, then ventilate and dry, and socks and stockings for 10 minutes. boil.

With the complication of athlete’s foot with pyococcal infection, antibiotics are prescribed – methicillin, cephaloridine, oleandomycin, metacycline, erythromycin. The patient must comply with bed rest.

Prophylaxis

Provides, firstly, disinfection of floors, wooden flooring, benches, basins, gangs in baths, showers, pools, as well as disinfection of impersonal shoes; secondly, regular examinations of attendants and persons involved in swimming pools in order to identify patients with epidermophytosis and treat them early; thirdly, carrying out sanitary and educational work. The population needs to be explained the rules for personal prevention of epidermophytosis: wash your feet daily at night (preferably with cold water and laundry soap), wipe them thoroughly; at least every other day, change socks and stockings; do not use someone else’s shoes; have your own rubber sandals or slippers for the bath, shower, pool.

To harden the skin of the soles, it is recommended to walk barefoot on sand, grass in the hot season.

Dyshidrotic eczema – Eva Art

Why do itchy blisters appear on the palms and feet?

Dyshidrotic eczema is a type of eczema (dermatitis) that is characterized by an itchy, blistering rash on the fingers, hands and feet. It occurs in children and adults and can be acute, recurrent, or chronic. In English-language literature, the term “pompholyx” is used for this condition, which means “bubble”. The clinical course of dyshidrotic eczema can vary from mild, self-limiting to severe, chronic, and debilitating, resistant to treatment. It is impossible to single out an unambiguous cause of dyshidrotic eczema. It is believed that pompholyx is a skin reaction caused by various external and internal provoking factors.

The most likely causes of dyshidrotic eczema are as follows:

1. Genetic factors. Filaggrin is a structural protein of the stratum corneum of the skin that plays an important role in its barrier function. Mutations in the filaggrin gene cause disruption of the skin barrier. This leads to increased permeability of allergens into the skin.
2. Atopy. According to some reports, about half of patients with dyshidrotic eczema have a personal or family history of atopy (atopic dermatitis, asthma, allergic rhinitis). Serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels are often elevated even in patients reporting no history of atopy.
3. Hypersensitivity (allergy) to nickel. Nickel contact dermatitis has been reported in 30% of patients with dyshidrotic eczema. Nickel ingestion with food can also be a cause of dyshidrotic eczema in some patients. Increased urinary nickel excretion has been reported during exacerbations of pompholyx.
Profuse sweating is thought to result in localized concentrations of metal salts that can induce a blistering reaction.
A low nickel diet may reduce the frequency and severity of pompholyx flare-ups.
4. Hypersensitivity to cobalt. When cobalt is consumed with food, allergic dermatitis in the form of dyshidrotic eczema occurs less frequently than when nickel is taken orally. Much more common is the co-occurrence of nickel and cobalt allergy, seen in 25% of nickel-sensitive patients who develop pompholyx. In these cases, the eczema is usually more severe.
A low cobalt diet has been proposed to help patients limit their intake and keep their blood cobalt levels below the threshold for developing pompholyx flare-ups. In addition, this diet reduces the amount of nickel consumed.
5. Contact exposure to allergenic chemicals or metals. Dyshidrotic eczema flares are sometimes associated with exposure to allergenic chemicals found in metals or cosmetics (eg, chromium, fragrances, dyes, preservatives, etc.)
Shower gel, shampoo, hair dye, etc. often act as a contact allergen.
6. Fungal infection. In some patients, pompholyx develops with a fungal infection and resolves with antifungal treatment.
7. ID reaction. This is a reaction to distant foci of fungal or bacterial infection. For example, with a fungal infection of the feet (or bacterial interdigital diaper rash), itchy blisters may appear on the hands.
8. Emotional stress. This is a possible factor in dyshidrotic eczema. Many patients report recurrences of pompholyx during stressful periods.
9. Hyperhidrosis – excessive sweating. To date, it has been proven that hyperhidrosis of the palms and feet is not the cause of pompholyx, but is an aggravating factor in 40% of patients with dyshidrotic eczema. Reducing sweating of the palms after the introduction of botulinum toxin helps to reduce / stop itching and blisters.
10. Climatic and seasonal factors. Environmental factors (seasonal increase in temperature, high humidity) exacerbate rashes in the form of bubbles.
Although phototherapy is a known effective treatment for pompholyx, exposure to ultraviolet A rays can trigger an outbreak in some patients. The use of photoprotective agents in this case leads to a decrease in the frequency and severity of exacerbations.
11. Other factors. The results of various studies describe other possible causes of the development of pompholyx, such as taking certain drugs, foods, smoking tobacco, diseases of the internal organs.