Dyshidrosis

What is dyshidrosis?

Dyshidrosis, also known as dyshidrotic eczema, is a skin condition characterized by the appearance of small vesicles (tiny blisters) often grouped together on the palms, soles, and sides of the fingers. These vesicles are filled with a clear liquid and can cause intense itching.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of dyshidrosis are:

• Small vesicles (tiny blisters): usually transparent and filled with a clear liquid. They may appear in clusters
• Itching: which can range from mild to severe
• Redness: inflammation associated with the disease
• Skin peeling: as the blisters break, the skin may peel and become rough

Causes

The causes of dyshidrosis can be associated with factors such as:

• Genetics: if there is a family history, there is a predisposition to develop the disease
• Skin irritants: exposure to certain substances can trigger or worsen dyshidrosis. This includes chemical components found in detergents, soaps, and cleaning products
• Allergies: contact with allergenic substances (substances capable of triggering allergic responses in the immune system of some people), such as metals, latex, personal care products, or plants, can trigger dyshidrosis in some people
• Stress: can influence skin health and be a triggering factor for some dermatological conditions, including dyshidrosis
• Climatic conditions: excessive heat or humidity can also contribute to the development of the disease

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of dyshidrosis is usually made through a clinical evaluation performed by a dermatologist:

• Physical examination: looking for characteristics of dyshidrosis, such as the small grouped vesicles (blisters) on the palms, soles, or sides of the fingers
• Clinical history: the dermatologist may ask questions about symptoms, their duration, family history, and other health conditions the patient may have
• Additional tests: to help find ways to treat the disease more effectively. When allergens are suspected, contact tests may be requested
• Biopsy: in rarer cases, a small skin sample may be removed for laboratory analysis. This can assist in diagnosis or rule out other skin conditions

Treatment

The treatment for dyshidrosis is based on relieving the patient from flare-ups by reducing itching, restoring the skin barrier, and preventing new flare-ups, as well as determining the cause:

• Creams and ointments: these medications are common to reduce skin inflammation and help improve the condition
• Cold water baths: avoiding hot water is important, as it can worsen symptoms due to skin dryness
• Skin care: keeping the skin clean and moisturized is essential. Gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers can help keep it healthy

Prevention

Although dyshidrosis cannot always be controlled, some measures can help reduce the risk of flare-ups:

• Avoid irritants: identifying and avoiding substances that may contribute to dyshidrosis is very important, including chemicals like detergents and perfumed soaps
• Foot care: if dyshidrosis affects the feet, it is important to keep them dry and clean, especially between the toes. Using breathable socks and ventilated shoes can help prevent excessive moisture

References

Secretaria da Saúde

Sociedade Brasileira de Dermatologia

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