User:Mr. Ibrahem/Eczema herpeticum

Eczema herpeticum
Other names	Kaposi varicelliform eruption, pustulosis varioliformis acute, Kaposi-Juliusberg dermatitis
Specialty	Dermatology
Complications	Secondary bacterial infection, blindness
Duration	Up to six weeks
Causes	Herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 or 2
Risk factors	Atopic dermatitis (eczema), other forms of dermatitis, burns, ichthyoses
Diagnostic method	Based on symptoms, confirmed by testing
Differential diagnosis	Impetigo, hand-foot-and-mouth disease, disseminated herpes zoster, disseminated molluscum contagiosum, dermatitis herpetiformis, eczema vaccinatum
Treatment	Acyclovir, valacyclovir, supportive care
Frequency	Rare

Eczema herpeticum is a widespread viral infection associated with small skin blisters. The blisters generally begin in groups at the site of other skin problems and are painful. They then break open to form small ulcers before developing a blood-stained crust. Associated symptoms often include fever and swollen lymph nodes. Healing generally occurs within six weeks. Complications may include secondary bacterial infection and blindness.

It is most commonly caused by a first episode of herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 or 2. Those affected generally have atopic dermatitis (eczema); though it may also occur in other skin conditions such as other forms of dermatitis, burns, and ichthyoses. Diagnosis is generally based on symptoms and may be confirmed by viral culture or PCR. Coxsackievirus A16 or vaccinia virus (eczema vaccinatum) may produce a similar condition.

Treatment should occur promptly with either acyclovir or valacyclovir. Supportive care, including intravenous fluids, nutritional support, and pain medication may also be required. Death is rare with appropriate treatment. Some; however, are left with permanent loss of function.

Eczema herpeticum affects about 3% of people with atopic dermatitis. Children are more commonly affected than adults. It was first described in 1887 by Moritz Kaposi. Some use the term "eczema herpeticum" when it occurs in atopic dermatitis and "Kaposi varicelliform eruption" when it occurs in other skin conditions.