Vesicular Diseases

Vesicles are small clear fluid filled deep seated lesions in the epidermis. They are a feature of eczema/ dermatitis when acute in onset but can also be seen in delayed type hypersensitivity reactions such as a reaction to tinea on the soles of the feet. They are usually itchy and can subsequently become pustular from secondary bacterial infection. If you have pustules enquire if they were clear fluid filled lesions initially. The developement of herpes simplex superimposed on a background atopic eczema is always a diagnostic problem but look for a sudden painful deteriration in the condition particularly with painful lesions appearing around the eyes.


View this discussion of dermatitis in DermNet NZ