herpetic whitlow or dyshidrotic eczema herpetic whitlow or dyshidrotic eczema

During your visit, your doctor will most likely take a look at your skin and ask you if youve noticed a pattern around your blisters like if youve started using different products or have felt particularly stressed and if your jobs or hobbies include coming into contact with metals. It occurs predominantly in patients with a history of smoking.6 Palmoplantar pustulosis has a similar appearance to dyshidrotic eczema that is secondarily infected, but the pruritus is typically less severe. Theyll look at your hands and feet, as well as your nails. Herpetic whitlow typically forms as grouped vesicles on the lateral edge of the thumb. Wear gloves with cotton liners whenever your hands are in water, like when you wash dishes. Herpetic gingivostomatitis in young children. Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. The severity of your outbreak and other personal health factors determine which treatments your doctor might suggest. It can happen when areas of the skin that eczema affects come into contact with the herpes virus. About 11% of people around the world have HSV-2. Your doctor might call it by another name, including dyshidrosis, foot-and-hand eczema, pompholyx, vesicular eczema, or palmoplantar eczema. If symptoms worsen quickly, the person may need urgent medical treatment. 2 and a half years ago I had a false negative come back for herpes. Hello. The only way of ruling it out is by getting yourself tested for herpes. Herpetic whitlow causes painful blisters on your fingers around your nails. It is most likely to result from contact with a cold sore (HSV-1) and usually occurs on the: Symptoms of eczema herpeticum usually appear 512 days after exposure to sores from the herpes virus. Often mistaken for impetigo, it consists of small, very even, punched-out blisters, which look as if someone has tried to take shallow punch biopsies. The treatment of the two conditions is different, one being a viral infection and the other caused by bacteria. You'll make them worse. Because the causes are unknown and the triggers are so personal, theres no one way to completely prevent or control outbreaks of dyshidrotic eczema. The infection develops 220 days after exposure to the virus, and once the infection sets in, the fluid-filled blisters tend to form within 56 days. HSV-1 is very contagious. The exact cause is not known and excessive sweating can be one of the reasons. 8 months ago, I had my positive result. You're more likely to get it if you have allergies like hay fever, a family history of dyshidrotic eczema, or other forms of eczema.. Eczema herpeticum is potentially a very serious condition. MedHelp is not a medical or healthcare provider and your use of this Site does not create a doctor / patient relationship. Wearing gloves while cleaning an affected area also prevents spreading the condition to other parts of your body. But the skin underneath can be red and tender for a while. To be considered for publication, submissions must meet these guidelines. The symptoms typically present as follows: Eczema herpeticum is a medical emergency because it can lead to severe and sometimes life threatening complications, such as: Eczema herpeticum can occur in people with any condition or injury that involves damaged skin, such as: Eczema is a rash that causes dry, irritated, red, and itchy patches of skin. Why would my lips be sore and red on the outside? Occasionally, scars may develop if an infection is persistent or extensive. Eczema herpeticum affects people with atopic dermatitis and other inflammatory skin diseases. An eczema herpeticum happens when the herpes virus infects large areas of the skin. We avoid using tertiary references. Eczema herpeticum is a rare but potentially serious complication. Herpetic whitlow is a viral condition where small blisters form on the fingers and the fleshy area around the fingertips. Herpetic whitlow is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Check out this roundup of the best at-home herpes tests to find out everything you need to. 2004-2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. Antivirals are only effective when taken within 24 hours of developing symptoms. My dermatologist did a shave biopsy on it and said it came back as a skin irritation, but did no further testing. Patients with atopy are often susceptible to all types of skin infections: bacterial, fungal, and viral. If you have any form of eczema and you develop a different kind of rash, especially one that is painful or forms blisters, see your healthcare provider for an evaluation. Understanding CMV: Is It a Type of Herpes Virus? Skin symptoms of eczema herpeticum include: Other symptoms of eczema herpeticum include: If you suspect you may have eczema herpeticum it is very important that you see a doctor immediately. What is de Quervain's tenosynovitis, and how is it treated? Complications of this infection may include: Immediate treatment for eczema herpeticum can reduce the risk of complications from the virus. If a secondary bacterial infection exists with eczema herpeticum, your doctor may also prescribe antibiotics. herpetic keratitis, an infection in the cornea of the eye that can lead to vision loss without treatment, organ failure and death, if the virus spreads to the brain, lungs, and liver, youre already living with another type of eczema, youve worked, or currently work, as a mechanic or metalworker, you have a history of working with cement, soaking your hands in a dilute solution of potassium permanganate for 10 to 15 minutes once or twice a day for up to 5 days, Cluster of small blisters that are itchy and painful, a moisturizer thats very emollient to help relieve the dryness, anti-itch medication in the form of a pill or cream. Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 02/07/2023. Get the latest eczema news delivered to your inbox. This is because the skin on the hands and fingers is much thicker than the skin on the genitals or lips. You may experience a burning or tingling pain thats worse than what you would expect from the blisters. Complications of this infection may include: Immediate treatment for eczema herpeticum can reduce the risk of complications from the virus. , National Eczema Association: "Favorite earrings got you feeling irritated? It is best to discuss symptoms and treatment options with a healthcare professional. Most eczema flares heal without long-term problems. Learn about spongiotic dermatitis, a skin condition related to eczema that causes swelling under the skin. Our expert physicians and surgeons provide a full range of dermatologic, reconstructive and aesthetic treatments options at Cleveland Clinic. An antihistamine like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or loratadine (Alavert, Claritin) can help with the itch, too. But you can manage them with medicine, moisturizers, and good hygiene. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Most cases of herpetic whitlow affect one finger, but it can spread to other fingers, too. Symptoms of herpetic whitlow can appear 1 to 2 weeks after exposure to the virus. You also might need to see an allergy doctor (allergist). It is more common in infants and young children and those with severe atopic dermatitis. Another HSV infection seen almost exclusively in atopic patients is eczema herpeticum . Herpetic whitlow doesnt require treatment. Herpetic whitlow can affect anyone at any age, but the condition is most common in: Infection is uncommon. The virus can enter your finger through this cut. How do I prevent the condition from returning. This content is owned by the AAFP. Check if you have pompholyx Pompholyx causes itchy blisters on the hands or feet that come and go. It may or may not reactivate and cause symptoms. I have tried everything under the sun from steroid creams to antibiotics, deuch cleaners I itch non stop for 2years plus. The condition is most common in persons who come in contact with saliva, such as dental hygienists and children who suck their thumbs. Herpetic whitlow is a temporary, painful skin condition. I cannot confirm anything without examination but it is less likely to be dyshidrotic eczema if the lumps are not itchy. The patient may have systemic signs and symptoms, such as fever, sore throat, painless lymphadenopathy, weight loss, myalgias, and fatigue.1. Find ways to relieve stress. If the herpetic whitlow were to recur in the same location, prompt treatment could be initiated, which would likely shorten the disease course and reduce symptoms. Some with whitlow only have symptoms once, but the infection recurs in 3050% of people who develop it. You may develop one blister or a cluster of blisters. Image courtesy of DermNet New Zealand. To learn more, please visit our. The reddish-brown rash is bilateral and varies in morphology from macular to papulonodular. A person sees the best results when they receive treatment within 48 hours of the symptoms appearing. Itch??? However, herpes can still spread to another person when there are no symptoms. As a result the skin may also fissure. In addition, your sleep may be disrupted if the itching or pain is severe. Theres no cure, so these blisters will come and go over time. Das S, Samudrala S, Chander R. Herpetic whitlow masquerading as pompholyx in a healthcare worker: revisiting the entity in today's era. Eczema herpeticum is an infection usually caused by the herpes simplex 1 virus or "oral herpes" - the virus that causes cold sores to appear around and inside the mouth. I also experience the same thing, except mine are red and inflammed. You can start with cold compresses, soothing the area every 15 minutes. Finlow, C., & Thomas, J. Don't try to do this yourself. Its possible to get recurrent outbreaks after an initial outbreak, but this is rare. Porter, D. (2020). These shots stop your hands and feet from sweating, which can trigger the blisters. Wearing gloves in a healthcare setting, especially with close contact with peoples mouths. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. Whitlow usually causes very pronounced symptoms: pronounced redness and blistering, and significant pain and discomfort. Wash your hands and feet every day. Hoff N, et al. When sores or blisters appear, this is called a herpes outbreak. Pimecrolimus cream, tacrolimus ointment, or Eucrisa, are typically used to treat atopic dermatitis. Ask you questions about your health, what you do for work and hobbies, and when you usually develop blisters. Eczema: Whats the Best Treatment for You. There are several types of herpes, but the two common ones are herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2. Ads are what helps us bring you premium content! Never disregard the medical advice of your physician or health professional, or delay in seeking such advice, because of something you read on this Site. Increased sweat around your blisters. I knew it was an inaccurate result but I was clinging onto that negative and acting like I didn't have it. Learn about the causes, symptoms, timeline, and treatments here. Prevention may be difficult, but the following measures can help: Herpetic whitlow is a temporary, painful condition that typically resolves in two to three weeks. A provider typically can diagnose the condition by appearance but they may also take a culture from the infected area of skin to confirm that it is eczema herpeticum. What can I do to relieve symptoms of pain? This diffuse infection comprises dozens of tiny papulovesicular lesions, mostly concentrated on the face but often spilling down onto the chest. You can only develop this condition if your finger comes in contact with type 1 or type 2 HSV. If theyre particularly big, your GP may be able to drain them. What is herpes keratitis? Image courtesy of DermNet New Zealand. A few other factors that may contribute to its development are: The main treatments your GP may recommend to treat the symptoms of pompholyx are similar to those used when treating atopic eczema, including: Your GP will probably prescribe a strong steroid cream to use for a short period of time to minimise the risk of steroid side effects. Your skin will take in the medicine better if you put a wet compress on it after you use the cream. The most common presentation is a symmetrical eruption of pruritic vesicles that resolves in three to four weeks with residual scaling.1,2 The etiology is unknown, but associated factors include stress, allergic reaction (particularly exposure to nickel and other metals), fungal infections, and genetic predisposition.3, Diagnosis of dyshidrotic eczema is clinical and based on a detailed history and the appearance of the rash. Eczema herpeticum can also appear in people who have contact dermatitis or seborrheic dermatitis. If you have one or more blood relatives with it, theres a higher chance you could also have it. You usually acquire it from contact with another person who has the virus, especially after contact with a cold sore or fever blister. This forms a shallow ulcer with a crust-like scab. Herpetic whitlow deserves good wound care. If you think you may have herpes, see a doctor as soon. Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone. Dyshidrotic eczema is a sudden rash of small, itchy blisters on your palms and along the sides of your fingers. Previous dyshidrotic eczema herpetic whitlow developments, essentially the most flashy Topical immunomodulators such as tacrolimus (Protopic) or pimecrolimus (Elidel) are beneficial in refractory cases.3, Herpetic whitlow typically forms as grouped vesicles on the lateral edge of the thumb. Treating herpes zoster with antivirals has been shown to reduce the acute pain, virus shedding, rash and the incidence and severity of post-herpetic neuralgia.2. See permissionsforcopyrightquestions and/or permission requests. These tiny blisters can grow together and form larger areas that are very itchy, red, and raised. I read on the internet that herpes and eczema can for into eczema herpeticum. Frequent recurrences may need an extended course of oral aciclovir. The virus infects the soft tissue and causes localized: A person may feel a burning or tingling sensation or pain before the finger, or fingertip, swells. Acyclovir treats certain viruses, including the cause of cold sores, chicken pox, and shingles. Eczema herpeticum usually appears on the face and neck. Patients with Darier disease or seborrheic dermatitis can also acquire it. For most people with dyshidrosis, it's just an itchy inconvenience. Although a virus causes herpes, if the area becomes exposed to bacteria, a bacterial infection can also be present. We look at the symptoms, causes, and treatment options. Last medically reviewed on November 18, 2020. I thought that it was herpes since I do get cold sores every 6-7 months. In immunosuppressed patients, herpes simplex can become generalised and may be life-threatening. How do I know which i have? In this article, we look at how to reduce the risk of a potentially painful infection. A 30-year-old woman presented with a nonpruritic vesicular eruption on the palms that began one week earlier. It causes a burning, itching feeling. These limit the appearance of symptoms by up to 4 days. Many people get HSV-1 through nonsexual contact, including kissing or sharing personal items, such as lip balm or utensils. HealthTap uses cookies to enhance your site experience and for analytics and advertising purposes. Not very itchy nor any pain. Read Also: Can You Get Eczema In Your Vagina. This uses ultraviolet (UV) light to clear up your skin. It can also appear on other places on the body such as the hands. Sometimes eczema herpeticum resembles another skin infection called impetigo. However, if a person with eczema becomes infected with one of the herpes simplex viruses HSV-1 or HSV-2 they may develop eczema herpeticum. In this article, we provide an overview of eczema and herpes and look at the causes, symptoms, and treatment of eczema herpeticum, which can occur when these two conditions meet. (2018). Policy. This discomfort can sometimes become so severe during a flare that youre limited in how much you use your hands, or even walk. In severe cases, the blisters may be quite large and may spread to the backs of the hands, feet and limbs. Several things can set off dyshidrotic eczema, including: Contact with metals like nickel, cobalt, or chromium salts on your job, or from things like costume jewelry, Certain treatments for a weak immune system (immunoglobulin). herpetic whitlow (whitlow finger) - an abscess (collection of pus) at the end of the finger that can cause it to become suddenly red, swollen, painful and blistered pustular psoriasis - an. They are typically small and very painful to the touch. Herpetic whitlow, or whitlow finger, is a painful infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. This condition isn't contagious. Herpetic whitlow causes painful blisters on your fingers. Color changes to the skin around your nail, usually darker than your normal skin tone, or red to purple. Patch tests can show if you have an allergy to nickel or another metal. Herpetic whitlow typically lasts about two weeks, sometimes longer if left untreated. Herpes simplex and herpes zoster cause painful blisters. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency. Learn more about this drug, branded as Zovirax, here. Impetigo usually has redness, swelling, tenderness, and honey-yellow crusting of infected skin . Keeping the skin healthy and unbroken helps protect the body from unwanted viruses and bacteria that can cause illness. Herpetic whitlow is an infection of the skin around your fingernail. You can also soak the affected areas for 15 minutes your doctor may know some good inflammation-lowering medicated soaks. Most people refer to herpes simplex viruses as herpes. These viruses transmit from one person to another and can cause painful or itchy blisters or open sores. We offer this Site AS IS and without any warranties. Its common and spreads easily. Any blisters that have formed may take 24 weeks to heal. It forms when a type of HSV enters the skin around the finger. Get useful, helpful and relevant health + wellness information. However, exposure to the herpes simplex virus can lead to severe and possibly life threatening complications. You also might use a cream that has dimethicone to protect your skin. People should seek medical attention if a blistery rash appears on the skin, especially if other symptoms, such as a fever, are present. All rights reserved. About half of all people with dyshidrotic eczema also have other types of eczema such as contact and atopic dermatitis. It can affect your palms, the sides of your fingers, and the soles of your feet. It appears as an erythematous eruption that varies in morphology from vesicular to pustular and has a chronic, recurrent course. It is characterized by a sudden onset of many deep-seated pruritic, clear vesicles which itch and then peel off. paranoid please get it treated by a mental health professional. Herpetic whitlow develops when HSV enters a finger, particularly the fingertip, often through a small cut in the skin. However, recurrent outbreaks of herpetic whitlow are usually less severe and heal faster because the body has developed antibodies to take measures against the virus. I have small white areas deep in the pulp of my finger tips. And if you have a mild case, it could go away on its own. . She did not have a fever or other systemic symptoms. It mostly affects adults ages 20 to 40, and it's twice as common in women as in men. They can also reduce the chances of it spreading from person to person, but they cannot eliminate the risk. Eczema herpeticum is potentially a very serious condition. Although the presence of a blister is a common sign of this condition, your fingers may become red or swollen before a blister forms. 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195 |, Important Updates + Notice of Vendor Data Event, (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482379/), (https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/bone,-joint,-and-muscle-disorders/hand-disorders/herpetic-whitlow), (https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/herpetic-whitlow/), (https://medlineplus.gov/ency/imagepages/1373.htm), Visitation, mask requirements and COVID-19 information. (2012). Herpes Whitlow Or Dyshidrotic Eczema. Early treatment can help prevent complications and stop HSV from spreading to vital organs. Eczema herpeticum is a rare but potentially serious complication. Most herpes simplex virus infections are easy for physicians to diagnose. Find out what each type of herpes feels like. Cardiovascular health: Insomnia linked to greater risk of heart attack. http://whitlow.curenow.infoHerpetic Whitlow or Dyshidrotic EczemaNo need to go for a complicated surgery. Antiviral medications cannot cure a person of the herpes infection, but they can reduce the frequency and severity of herpes outbreaks. Medicines that slow your immune system. Moroevre herpetic whitlow is characterized by painful bumps. For potential or actual medical emergencies, immediately call 911 or your local emergency service. The person may feel unwell, with swollen lymph nodes, a fever, chills, and fatigue starting as the rash appears. Because eczema herpeticum is potentially very serious, it is important to see your health care provider if you experience symptoms. At this point, there may be a color change, such as reddening. Covering your blisters also prevents the spread of the virus to others. I also assume that you had no response to ant .Check with an internist or dermatologist. Antiviral treatment may be necessary to help the condition go away faster. Good day, I am a 27year old female with aqute vaginal itching. Although cold sores usually appear on your mouth, they can also appear in or around your nose. Started out on just 2 fingers a week ago. It can take up to 3 weeks for the blisters to heal. Eczema can become infected with bacteria, viruses, or fungi. This discomfort can sometimes become so severe during a flare that youre limited in how much you use your hands, or even walk. Many people have herpes but do not have symptoms or outbreaks, so they are unaware that they have the virus. The main complication of dyshidrotic eczema is usually the discomfort from itching and the pain from the blisters. Then, blisters form near your fingernail, which causes your skin to be tender and sensitive. Disseminated herpes simplex virus: A case of eczema herpeticum causing viral encephalitis. Once an initial outbreak goes away, the virus may remain dormant in your body for years. There are a variety of factors that may dictate who develops dyshidrotic eczema. We dont know why some people exposed to the herpes simplex virus simply get cold sores while others get full-blown eczema herpeticum. We disclaim all responsibility for the professional qualifications and licensing of, and services provided by, any physician or other health providers posting on or otherwise referred to on this Site and/or any Third Party Site. Eventually, the blister or group of blisters ruptures. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. To treat eczema herpeticum, a doctor will likely prescribe an antiviral medication, usually in the form of tablets or syrup. When whitlow reappears, it is usually less severe than the first infection. Herpetic whitlow can also produce a fever and swollen lymph nodes. However, id reactions occur in the presence of an inflammatory process, such as acute Tinea pedis infection or stasis dermatitis, at a distant site. Pompholyx usually starts as intense itching and burning of the skin on the hands and fingers. Read Also: Why Do I Have Eczema On My Fingers. Herpetic whitlow is a herpes infection of a finger or, less often, a toe. HSV-2 spreads through sexual contact with a person who has the infection. Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone. These symptoms may last for several weeks at a time. The National Eczema Association is the driving force for an eczema community fueled by knowledge, strengthened through collective action and propelled by the promise for a better future. Herpetic whitlow. Try to maintain your fingernails so theyre short enough to not break the skin if/when you scratch. Read Also: Eczema In Elbow Crease Treatment. The palms and sides of the fingers then erupt into tiny itchy blisters that may weep fluid. It occurs primarily in medical. dyshidrotic eczema herpetic whitlow lots of people are questioning about this subject. Let them heal on their own. People with atopic dermatitis are more susceptible to skin infection in general, including eczema herpeticum. It can also appear on other places on the body such as the hands. Eczema herpeticum is a condition with a somewhat misleading name, as it suggests there has to be eczema, but any skin problem that breaches the skin barrier can be complicated by herpes simplex . Eczema herpeticum, also called Kaposi varicelliform eruption, is the rapid dissemination of a herpes simplex viral . Home remedies may help. HSV-1 commonly causes cold sores, known as oral herpes. Learn more. You might get a medicine first to help your skin respond better to the light. What is the latest research on the form of cancer Jimmy Carter has? Scabs and heals in 1 or 2 weeks? This discomfort can sometimes become so severe during a flare that youre limited in how much you use your hands, or even walk. Parents or caregivers of infants and young children should talk to a pediatrician about the best way to manage the childs eczema symptoms and seek medical advice if blisters appear. As a precaution, dont wear contact lenses if you have herpetic whitlow. It can take up to two weeks for symptoms to appear after the first contact with the herpes simplex virus. Physical examination revealed multiple vesicles on the palms in various stages of healing with faint surrounding erythema (see accompanying figure). Eczema herpeticum may also appear on the hands and other parts of the body. The early stages of the condition include pain and a tingling sensation on your finger. Herpetic whitlow may recur, especially with finger cuts, but recurrent episodes are usually less symptomatic. If your situation suggests a herpetic whitlow diagnosis, a healthcare provider will complete an evaluation. Herpetic whitlow can develop on any of your fingers. Video chat with a U.S. board-certified doctor 24/7 in less than one minute for common issues such as: colds and coughs, stomach symptoms, bladder infections, rashes, and more. The best way to prevent eczema herpeticum is to manage the symptoms of eczema and take measures to avoid HSV-1 and HSV-2. Eczema, Dyshidrotic* Fingers Hand Dermatoses* / diagnosis . The skin tends to become dry and crack or peel as it starts to heal. Please note, we cannot prescribe controlled substances, diet pills, antipsychotics, or other commonly abused medications. Herpetic whitlow isnt a sexually transmitted infection (STI or STD). These eventually burst and scab over. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. Dyshidrotic eczema is a kind of inflammatory pores and skin dysfunction that ends in blisters on the palms of the arms and soles of the toes. There isnt a cure for herpetic whitlow. To confirm the diagnosis, your provider will provide a PCR test or a culture test. Pompholyx is also called dyshidrotic eczema. Can poor sleep impact your weight loss goals? Symptoms . Herpetic whitlow. If you notice that a certain personal care product like a new bar of soap seems to have been the cause of your blisters, stop using it for a few weeks and see if the inflammation and itching die down. In immunosuppressed people or patients on chemotherapy, this condition can involve several dermatomes. If youve contracted HSV, herpetic whitlow may occur as a secondary condition. The herpes simplex virus causes the condition when the virus penetrates your skin through a break in your skin near your nail. I thought maybe i spread it it my hands. Herpetic Whitlow or Dyshidrotic Eczema The main complication of dyshidrotic eczema is usually the discomfort from itching and the pain from the blisters. Afterward, gently pat your skin dry. Signs that you have an infection include: Doctors arent sure what causes dyshidrotic eczema. (2019). Your skin will take in the medicine better if you put a wet compress on it after you use the cream. By using our website, you consent to our use of cookies. Dyshidrotic eczema, also known as dyshidrosis and pompholyx, is a vesicular eruption that primarily affects the palmar aspect of the hands and lateral aspects of the fingers. How Viagra became a new 'tool' for young men, Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3987239/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482379/, https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/pde.13795, https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/herpes-simplex-virus, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3503926/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482197/. Eczema herpeticum is an infection usually caused by the herpes simplex 1 virus or oral herpes the virus that causes cold sores to appear around and inside the mouth. A collection of Photo Quiz published in AFP is available at https://www.aafp.org/afp/photoquiz. If youve been dealing with red, itchy skin for more than a week, its a good idea to seek out your doctor or dermatologist, because many skin conditions can cause blisters. An estimated 2 people per 100,000 receive a herpetic whitlow diagnosis in the United States.