It is a type of a hand eczema which occurs more commonly in women and it starts on the sides of the fingers as itchy little bumps and then develops into a rash. This condition can also affect the feet. This condition might involve both hands and feet. It is also known as pompholyx. In its mild form it might result in a little peeling whereas in severe cases it results in big blisters and cracks. In the first stage it results in tiny blisters deep in the skin and it is associated with a feeling of itching and burning. In the later stage it results in cracking, peeling or crusting. Some of the cases might suffer from the first stage whereas in some cases both the stages might occur at the same time.

This condition gets aggravated by contact with irritants such as detergents, solvents and water. One must avoid contact with these things as much as possible and should wear gloves for extra protection. People suffering from this disease have also been found out to be allergic to nickel and the patients should avoid touching nickel items.

Cause

The cause of this condition is attributed to the genes and it appears during periods of stress. In some cases ingestion of allergens such as neomycin, chromate, nickel or quinoline might cause this disease.

Symptoms

It results in intense itching on the area where blisters are formed. It also results in cracks or fissures on the toes or finger. In case of large blisters pain might occur.

Treatment

The treatment of this disease depends upon the stage of the disease. The various types of treatments are:

Cool compresses

The blisters can be dried up by applying compresses using weak solutions of potassium permanganate, vinegar in water or aluminium acetate for fifteen minutes four times a day.

Topical steroids

Topical steroids can be applied which can help in reducing itching and inflammation.

Emollients

These creams help in keeping the skin soft.

Antibiotics

In case of secondary infection antibiotics can be prescribed.

PUVA therapy

It can be useful in selected cases. The affected area is exposed in psoralen before being exposed to long wave UV light. The treatment has to be continued for several months.

Systematic steroids

In severe cases cortisone preparations are administered through tablet or injection but a long term treatment is not prescribed as it can result in undesirable side effects.

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