Pompholyx

Pompholyx is a common type of eczema affecting the hands (cheiropompholyx), and sometimes the feet (pedopompholyx). The name pompholyx comes from the Greek word for "bubble" , which accurately describes this disorder. The vesicles, which contain clear fluid, usually subside without rupturing, although in some cases they may become tense, burst and discharge. Dyshidrotic dermatitis ( pompholyx ) is a form of hand eczema more common in women which starts on the sides of the fingers as itchy little bumps and then develops into a rash. 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. It is most common in individuals between the ages of twenty to forty. The word dyshidrotic is used because it is felt that this condition is related to sweat glands, but this association has not been proven.

Pompholyx is basically a skin disease typical to youth, but it may occur to the people at any age. It occurs slightly more frequently in females than in males. It is also known as dyshidrotic eczema or vesicular eczema of the hands and/or feet. The later and more chronic stage shows more peeling, cracking, or crusting, and often bleeding. Secondary infection with Staphylococcal bacteria is not infrequent (impetigo). The result is pain, redness, swelling and crusting or pustules. Infection with herpes simplex (the cold sore virus) may cause a severe blistering rash. The symptoms of Pompholyx include peeling and tiny blisters begin to appear. In the later stages, the skin could become cracked, and crusted over.

Causes of Pompholyx

The common Causes of Pompholyx :

The exact cause of Pompholyx is unknown.
Dyshidrotic dermatitis often appears during times of stress.
Pompholyx infection with staphylococcal bacteria is not infrequent. That result is pain, redness, swelling and crusting or pustules.
Small fluid filled blisters called vesicles appear on the hands and feet. They are most common along the edges of the fingers, toes, palms and soles.
The later and more chronic stage shows more peeling, cracking, or crusting.
People who have dyshidrotic dermatitis are genetically predisposed to it.

Symptoms of Pompholyx

Some Symptoms of Pompholyx :

Itchy vesicles on the sides of the fingers and palms of the hands.
Peeling, cracking, or crusting.
Pain may occur with larger blisters.
Intense itching at the site of the blistering.
Infection with herpes simplex (the cold sore virus) may cause a severe blistering rash.

Treatment of Pompholyx

Skin protection is an important part of treatment.
Aluminum subacetate, or Burrow's Solution, is a drying soak that can be used if the lesions ooze.
Antihistamines.
Cool compression, PUVA, Emollients or hand creams can help a lot .
Oral antibiotics .
Strong topical steroids.
Medications such as methotrexate and botulinum toxin
Case reports severe resistant cases will benefit from methotrexate, cyclosporine, azathioprine, mycophenolate, and iontophoresis.

Nails Care

Anychia
Clawing of the Nails
Clubbing
Discoloration of the Nail Plate
Ingrowing Toe Nail
Koilonychia
Longitudinal Striations
Loss of Nail Plate
Onycholysis
Paronychia
Pitting of Nail Plates
Pterygium
Thickening of Nail Plate
Transverse Ridges

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