The blisters associated with dyshidrosis occur most commonly on the sides of the fingers and the palms, although the soles of the feet also can be affected. The blisters are usually small — about the width of a standard pencil lead — and typically appear in clusters, with an appearance similar to tapioca.
In more-severe cases, the small blisters may merge together to form larger blisters. Skin affected by dyshidrosis can be very itchy or even painful. Once the blisters dry and flake off, which occurs in about three weeks, the underlying skin may be red and tender.
Dyshidrosis tends to recur fairly regularly for months or years.
When to see a doctor
Call your doctor if you have a rash on your hands or feet that doesn't go away on its own.
May. 03, 2013
- Wolff K, et al. Fitzpatrick's Color Atlas and Synopsis of Clinical Dermatology. 6th ed. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2009. http://www.accessmedicine.com/resourceTOC.aspx?resourceID=45. Accessed Feb. 19, 2013.
- Adams DR, et al. Acute palmoplantar eczema (dyshidrotic eczema). http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed Feb. 19, 2013.
- Veien NK. Acute and recurrent vesicular hand dermatitis. Dermatology Clinic. 2009;27:337.
- Gibson LE (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Feb. 21, 2013.
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