Dyshidrotic Eczema
Alternate Names : Dyshidrosis, Pompholyx
What are the treatments for the condition?
When an outbreak of dyshidrotic eczema occurs, treatment includes keeping skin
dry and cool. Heat, sweating, and moisture can make symptoms worse. Treatment
options include:
antihistamines to decrease itching
chelation therapy,
to
minimize the effect of nickel
compresses of Burow's solution for fluid-filled lesions
drainage of fluid-filled lesions
medicines that suppress the immune system, such as azathioprine,
methotrexate, or cyclosporine
PUVA, or phototherapy with ultraviolet A light, which may be combined with
a medicine called psoralen
oral or topical antibiotics for secondary infections
oral steroids for severe cases
topical corticosteroid creams to reduce itching and inflammation
A diet low in nickel or cobalt may be considered. However, these
diets are hard to follow, and their effectiveness has not been proven. Nickel
levels are high in canned foods and foods cooked in nickel-plated utensils.
Nickel is also found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, tea, cocoa,
chocolate, and baking powder. Cobalt is found in a variety of fruits,
vegetables, and spices. It is also high in cocoa, chocolate, and
coffee.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Long-term use of steroid creams can cause thinning of the skin. Antibiotics may
cause
rash, stomach upset, or other allergic reactions
.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Dyshidrotic eczema usually heals completely with treatment, but it may reoccur.
Careful management may decrease the number of outbreaks. Biofeedback therapy for stress
reduction has been successful in limiting outbreaks in some
individuals.
How is the condition monitored?
Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
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