Pompholyx Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Pompholyx or dyshidrotic eczema is a skin disorder characterized by the presence of small elastic filled with fluid on the palms, fingers and back of the hands.
In some cases, resilience also occurs on the soles of the feet.
Sufferers can feel intense itching, accompanied by a burning sensation.
Symptom
The appearance of pompholyx symptoms is usually episodic.
An acute episode begins with an intense itching or burning sensation followed by the appearance of an enlarged vesicle or elastic band. These Lentings are very small, which is the size of a pencil tip and there are many of them.
Tensions may coalesce into large bullae or blisters within hours. The most commonly affected areas are the palms, soles, sides of the hands, fingers and toes. When the bullae burst, the lesions become very wet and painful.
These complaints usually dry up after two weeks characterized by painful cracking of the skin in the subacute and chronic phases.
In addition, scratching in a resilient area also has the potential to invite bacterial infection. Therefore, it is not uncommon to find resilience with a layer of pus on it due to a bacterial infection.
Reason
The exact cause of pompholyx is not known. Allegedly, there is a role of factors such as stress, sensitivity to metal compounds (such as nickel, cobalt, or chromate), heat, and sweating.
About 50 percent of sufferers also have atopic dermatitis or a family history of atopic dermatitis. This disease can also occur together with fungal infections.
Risk Factors
Everyone can experience pompholyx. However, this disorder is more common in people under 40 years of age and in women with the following risk factors:
- stress. Pompholyx often occurs when someone is under stress
- Exposure to certain chemicals. Exposure to cobalt and nickel is suspected of triggering pompholyx-sensitive skin. Skin that is sensitive and easily irritated is more at risk of experiencing pompholyx
- Atopy or allergies. People who have a history of atopy are more prone to pompholyx
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of pompholyx can be made through a medical interview and physical examination, where the doctor will find springiness in the fingers and palms.
Treatment
Pompholyx may resolve spontaneously. Treatment is usually needed to control pruritus or itching, formation of resilient lesions, and pain from cracks. Pompholyx treatment usually includes:
Topical Corticosteroids
This drug works by suppressing the inflammatory response in the skin area, so that pain and itching will feel lighter and speed healing.
Oral Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a type of drug that can help relieve itching and provide a mild sedative effect.
Phototherapy
Phototherapy is carried out by irradiating the pompholyx skin area using a special ultraviolet light.
Immunosuppressant Ointment
Administering an immunosuppressant ointment containing tacrolimus or pimecrolimus is another option besides corticosteroid ointment.
Botox injections
In cases of severe pompholyx, Botox injections can be a treatment option.
moisturizer
Use a moisturizer every day to prevent dry skin.
Prevention
There are no specific steps that can be taken to prevent pompholyx. However, the risk of pompholyx can be minimized by avoiding stress.
In addition, it is also recommended to avoid exposure to hazardous chemicals, such as nickel and cobalt.
Also make sure to maintain personal hygiene, especially skin, every day.
Complications
Wounds caused by scratching on the resilient pompholyx have the potential to invite bacterial infections if cleanliness is not maintained properly.
The condition of pompholyx infection by bacteria is called secondary infection.
When to See a Doctor?
Immediately see a doctor if you find symptoms of pompholyx, such as suppleness, red rash, and discharge.