What Does Fingertip Eczema Look Like?
Atopic dermatitis on the fingertips is called fingertip eczema. Fingertip eczema may be on only one finger, a few fingers, or all the fingers. If the fingertip eczema is affecting other parts of the hand, it may be called hand eczema.
Fingertip eczema causes a dry, flaky rash. Often, the skin on the fingertips peels. The dry skin may crack or appear thick and wrinkled.
The skin of the fingertips may appear red and irritated. If the skin cracks and bleeds, the eczema rash may become infected. If the person develops a fever, if the rash has discharge, or if there are any other signs of infection, the person should notify the physician.
People with fingertip eczema have different experiences with this condition. Some people report a tingling sensation in the fingertips before the rash develops or before the skin peels. Having to use the fingertips, such as while typing, can cause pain or discomfort. The skin of the fingers may also feel tight.
The cause of fingertip eczema is not thoroughly understood. In some cases, it may be the result of being on contact with allergens such as chemicals or soaps. Some people with eczema may experience more frequent flare-ups of eczema in the winter.
The physician is likely to ask questions about the patients activities and history of rashes when diagnosing fingertip eczema. The physician will examine the rash. The information provided by the patient and examination of the rash are used to diagnose fingertip eczema since there are no tests for this condition.
Moisturizers are often the first treatment that is tried. If moisturizer fails to clear the symptoms of fingertip eczema, the physician may prescribe a topical steroid cream. Some dermatologists recommend the application of shortening after bathing to soften and moisturize the skin.
People with fingertip eczema or other forms of eczema often have occasional flare-ups of the condition. People of any age can have eczema though some people only have the condition in childhood. Keeping the skin moisturized especially during winter is recommended to help prevent eczema rashes.
People with eczema should avoid skin contact with chemicals or prolonged exposure to hot water. If people with fingertip eczema must handle substances that may dry the skin, they should wear rubber gloves.
Filed under: Allergies