Re: Eczema Herpeticum
Posted: Tue Jan 31, 2012 9:40 pm
Oh you poor thing! I'm so glad it's clearing up for you 
Herpes does not cause serious health problems for someone with a healthy immune system. However, if an individual with eczema catches HSV-1 or HSV-2, they may develop eczema herpeticum.
Eczema herpeticum is a rare but serious complication, which can happen when skin that is affected by eczema comes into contact with the herpes virus. It is most often caused by contact with a cold sore (HSV-1) and usually occurs on the:
head
neck
trunk
Symptoms of eczema herpeticum do not appear immediately after exposure to a cold sore or genital herpes. Usually, they show up 5 to 12 days afterward and may include:
A rash that causes blisters: The blisters appear in a cluster and may cover a large area. They may break open and be itchy or painful, weep, bleed, or have pus or yellow fluid inside.
Feeling unwell, swollen lymph nodes, fever, chills, and fatigue: These symptoms usually start as the rash appears.
Eczema herpeticum is a medical emergency because it can lead to serious complications. It can be fatal in rare cases. Complications may include:
Long-term scarring from the blisters.
A herpes infection in the cornea of the eye known as herpetic keratitis. If untreated, herpetic keratitis can lead to blindness.
Organ failure and death if the virus spreads to the brain, lungs, and liver.
Eczema herpeticum can occur in people with any condition involving damaged skin, such as:
contact dermatitis
burns
seborrheic dermatitis
Eczema herpeticum is treated with antiviral medication, and it can lead to hospitalization. Bacteria do not cause eczema herpeticum, so it is not treated with antibiotics.
An ophthalmologist may need to examine suspected infections in the cornea of the eye. Early treatment is necessary to avoid serious health problems and to stop it spreading to vital organs.
The best way to prevent eczema herpeticum is to keep eczema symptoms under good control and to take measures to avoid catching HSV-1 or HSV-2.
Know eczema triggers: Avoid them whenever possible.
Moisturize skin after bathing and throughout the day, as needed: Avoid scratching the skin, as this may cause cracks or breaks that leave it vulnerable to infections.
Use eczema medications as prescribed by a doctor: These may be oral as well as creams for the skin.
Keep track of eczema symptoms: Always see a doctor if they worsen.
Thanks,
Nav