spongiotic dermatitis

I posted a question some months back, concerning rash on palms, itching, peeling, cracking,etc.  I finally had a biopsy done and the results were spongiotic dermatitis. One of the ointments given earlier was Embaline, which did not work, and the doctor put me back on it saying that it should. Well it is not helping at the moment my thumb is bandage because it is so sore and cracked.

What is spogiotic dermatitis? I know they said an allergy, but with the patch testing all that came up was a mild reaction to soaps, detergents, softners, etc. If this is the case why is it only on the palms of my hands and primarly my right palm and fingers.  I am so discouraged. Please any direction would be welcomed!

Leslie

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Leslie:

"Spongiotic" just means "little blisters."  This is found in all cases of eczema; in other words, the biopsy just confirmed that you have eczema.  The cause remains unknown, as it usually does in such cases.

If Embeline doesn't help, ask your doctor about using medication under plastic overnight wrapping, or occlusion.  That is a bit cumbersone, but after a few days it often pays big dividends.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff

[chris5]

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