Red Rash On Hands | Arthritis Information

Dyshidrosis, also known as dyshidrotic eczema or pompholyx, is a skin condition in which small, fluid-filled blisters (vesicles) occur on the palms of your hands or the soles of your feet, or both.

The blisters that occur in dyshidrosis generally last around three weeks and cause intense itching. Once the blisters dry, cracks and grooves (fissures) form, which can be painful.

Treatment for dyshidrosis most often includes topical creams, wet compresses and ultraviolet light therapy to improve appearance and ease symptoms.

In dyshidrosis, the affected skin becomes inflamed (dermatitis). As a result, the junctions between the skin cells open and allow fluid (serum) to fill the spaces. Doctors refer to this process as spongiosis because the skin becomes more sponge-like with these many fluid-filled spaces.

Signs and symptoms of dyshidrosis include:

• Small, itchy bumps that gradually progress to a rash made up of fluid-filled blisters (vesicles)
• Intense itching
• Cracks or grooves (fissures) on your fingers or toes
• Pain, especially with large blisters

The small, fluid-filled blisters (vesicles) most commonly occur on the palms and fingers of your hands. They may also occur on the soles and toes of your feet. The blisters usually last about three weeks.

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. Also contact your doctor if you've been diagnosed with dyshidrosis and have signs and symptoms of an infection, including fever, or pain or inflammation at the rash site.

Risk factors for dyshidrosis include:

• Being female, because women appear to have a higher incidence of dyshidrosis
• Stress, because dyshidrosis appears to be more common during times of stress
• Exposure to metal salts, such as chromium, cobalt and nickel — usually through cement or mechanical work
• Having seasonal allergies, such as hay fever
• Frequently exposing your skin to water or other wet substances

For most people, dyshidrosis is just an itchy inconvenience. For some, however, the pain and itching may limit the use of their hands. In some cases, skin damage (including thickening of your skin) or a bacterial infection may occur as a result of the open, sponge-like skin or due to intense scratching. This can make treatment lengthier and more difficult.