Pompholyx Information - Symptoms and Treatment

Pompholyx is a type of eczema and its cause is unknown, it is characterised initially by an eruption of very itchy vesicles on the sides of the fingers and palms of the hands and occasionally the soles of the feet and toes. This appears as intensely itchy vesicles on the hands, fingers and soles of the feet. The vesicles, which contain clear fluid, usually subside without rupturing, although in some cases they may become tense, burst and discharge. In either case, the vesicular stage, which usually lasts for one to two weeks is followed by a dry desquamating phase, by which time the itching is usually markedly reduced.

What are the causes of Pompholyx ?

Causes of Pompholyx are not known, some investigators thinks it to be caused by abnormal sweating, the cause of this pattern of eczema is not fully understood but in some cases there is a history of allergic contact dermatitis especially to nickel. Very often no specific allergen is found despite extensive patch testing. This form of eczema is aggravated by stress. Oral antihistamines help to alleviate the intense itch. Frequently applied calamine lotion helps to cool the affected skin. The later and more chronic stage shows more peeling, cracking, or crusting. .

Treatment of Pompholyx

Treating of Pompholyx includes:

1) Skin protection is an important part of treatment.

2) Avoid direct contact with turpentine, paint thinner and paints.

3) Aluminum subacetate, or Burrow's Solution, is a drying soak that can be used if the lesions ooze.

4) Large blisters can be drained by a health care provider

5) Cool compression, PUVA, Emollients or hand creams can help a lot

6) Other medications used occasionally for pompholyx include;

• methotrexate
• dapsone
• azathioprine
• botulinum toxin

Bookmark This Page:

Home | Directory | Skin Diseases | Site Map | Cardiovascular Diseases | Hematological Diseases | Contact Us | Submit Site
Copyright © 2006 Medical-Diseases.info All Rights Reserved