Pus-filled itchy bumps

[bethurrabazo]

My two year old broke out with "blisters" on the tops of her hands which spread like wildfire to her arms. She now has them on her legs and left facial cheek. She scratches at them, so apparently they itch. I initially thought HFMD, then I thought chickenpox. This has been ongoing for 3 weeks and the only reason I hadn't taken her in is because the two things I thought it was is not really treatable. None of them have become Impetigo or even infected, but I'd like to know what it is and how I can try to rid her of it before a doctor visit is required. Thanks.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
If the itchy blisters have been present for 3 weeks, then definitely a pediatrician’s evaluation is mandatory. It can be viral diseases like chicken pox, hands, foot or mouth disease or molluscum contagiosum. The other possibilities are of contact dermatitis or fungal infections. Impetigo does not present with the symptom of itching. Without examination, it is very difficult to confirm a diagnosis.

My sincere advice would be to consult a dermatologist. Till then apply calamine lotion on her rashes and make her wear cotton clothes.
Hope it helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how your daughter is doing. Kind regards.

[bethurrabazo]

Thank you so much Dr. Kaur. We have an appointment this afternoon with her pediatrician. Your advice was very helpful.