(See also Overview of Dermatitis.)
Pompholyx is sometimes called dyshidrotic eczema, which means caused by abnormal sweating, but the disorder actually is not caused by sweating (although sweat can make it worse). Doctors do not know what causes pompholyx, but people often also have atopic dermatitis or contact dermatitis, and stress may be a factor as well as some ingested substances such as nickel, chromium, and cobalt. It is more common among adolescents and young adults.
The disorder starts with tiny blisters that become red, oozing, and then scaly. Pompholyx comes and goes in attacks every few months or years apart and is typically very itchy. Skin affected by pompholyx can become infected with bacteria. Pompholyx takes weeks to go away on its own.
Diagnosis
Treatment
Wet compresses with potassium permanganate or aluminum acetate (Burow solution) may help the blisters go away faster.
Strong topical corticosteroids and/or either tacrolimus or pimecrolimus may help itching and inflammation.
Pompholyx can also be treated with antibiotics (for bacterial infection) taken by mouth and with phototherapy (exposure to ultraviolet light).
