Recurrent vesicular palmoplantar dermatitis: a clinical study in children and adolescents

Abstract

Background: Previously known as dyshidrosis, recurrent vesicular palmoplantar dermatitis (RVPD) is presented as severe eruption of non -erythematous, symmetrical vesicles or bullae located along the lateral sides of fingers, on the palmar or plantar areas, and developing into a chronic and recurrent condition. Although very frequently observed on the hands, there are no specific studies about such eczema in children and adolescents. Objectives of current study was to study clinical profile of RVPD in children and adolescents, and monitor the association of RVPD with seasonal variations, hyperhidrosis, atopy and nickel sulphate. Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out in fifty patients affected by RVPD coming to out- patient department of dermatology in regional institute of medical sciences, Imphal, Manipur for a period of 24 months (October 2019 to September 2021) were collected using questionnaire. Data including age, sex, seasonal variation, hyperhidrosis, and atopy were collected. Relevant laboratory investigations like KOH examination, patch testing etc. were performed. Children (<12 years) and adolescents (13-18 years) irrespective of sex coming to opd were included and those unwilling to participate and treated elsewhere were excluded. Ethical approval was obtained from research ethics board and statistical analysis was done using IBM SPSS version 21. Results: Majority (44%) of patients were in the age group 1-5 years. Hyperhidrosis (12%) was identified as second most contributing factor for RVPD after idiopathic cases. Atopy was the most common associated factor followed by seasonal warm weather exacerbation. Conclusions: RVPD onset may occur at an early age, developing into a chronic and recurrent infection. Hyperhidrosis and atopic status was established in the clinical profile.