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Dyshidrotic eczema - Overview

Alternative Names

Dyshidrosis; Pompholyx

Definition of Dyshidrotic eczema:

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

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

This blistering type of eczema is twice as common in women than men.

People are more likely to develop dyshidrotic eczema when:

  • They are under stress
  • They have allergies, such as hayfever
  • Their hands are often in water or moist
  • They do cement work or other work that exposes their hands to chromium, cobalt, nickel

The cause is unknown. The condition seems to appear during certain times of the year.

  • Reviewed last on: 8/8/2011
  • A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, and David R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine (10/3/2010).

References

Veien NK. Acute and recurrent vesicular hand dermatitis. Dermatol Clin. 2009 Jul;27(3):337-53.

Eczema and hand dermatitis. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2009:chap 3.

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