Is that contact dermatitis??

[krumplipap]

Hey everyone, sorry about my English, but this is my problem:
It has been already a month that I have this localized erythematous plaque on the back of my hand. The only thing I can think about is maybe exposure to cold, but it's not very likely since most of the days I'm not outside.
It's a bit itchy, but I keep myself from itching since it's painful.
About 2 weeks ago it seemed like it's going to disappear, but then again it "blossomed".
I took some pictures of it:
http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/9661/039gq2.jpg
http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/9561/041ah7.jpg
Do you think steroid cream should help? Does it look serious?
I really apperciate your help!

[krumplipap]

Thank you very much for your thorough answer! I'm pretty sure it's not pompholyx, but it might be dyshydrotic eczema, although I used to put moisturizing cream on my hands almost every day.
I put some topical steroid cream, and I hope it would work.
Thank you again!!

Tom

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

It looks like dyshidrotic eczema or pompholyx. As in other forms of hand dermatitis, pompholyx is aggravated by contact with irritants such as water, detergents and solvents.

Soaks or compresses using weak solutions of Condy's crystals (potassium permanganate), aluminium acetate, or vinegar in water, are applied for 15 minutes four times a day. This will dry up blisters.Also apply liberal amounts of moisturizers.Other treatment options include topical steroids,oral steroids and PUVA therapy.I think you should consult a dermatologist and discuss these options with him.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted if you have any additional doubts.