“This is a striking acute vesicular type of dermatitis that affects the
palms (cheiropompholyx) and the soles of the feet (podopompholyx).
The aetiology of pompholyx is unclear, although some studies have
suggested a prevalence of atopy in up to 50% of sufferers. Patients
complain of intense itching and discomfort and examination reveals
multiple tiny vesicles that look like sago grains (Fig. 3.5). The role of
contact allergy in pompholyx is debated, although some investigators
believe that ingested nickel may be a factor in nickel-sensitive patients.
Treatment is aimed at drying the acute, weeping vesicles with potassium permanganate soaks and reducing the inflammatory component
with potent topical steroid creams”
From Neales
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