Epidermolysis bullosa simplex is a genetic disorder that causes blisters and skin irritations, usually limited to the hands and feet. It is hereditary and symptoms often appear shortly after birth. Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, but most parents and patients can learn to take care of blisters at home and prevent complications.
Epidermolysis bullosa simplex is a genetic disorder that causes frequent outbreaks of blisters and skin irritations that are usually limited to the hands and feet. People who have the condition typically experience recurring emergences of red, white, or dark-colored blisters that pop and heal within days. Epidermolysis bullosa simplex is hereditary, and symptoms often begin to appear shortly after birth. Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, but most parents and patients can learn to take care of blisters at home and prevent complications.
There are several forms of epidermolysis bullosa and the simplex variety is usually the mildest. Genetic mutations affect the production of keratin in the outermost layer of skin. As a result, the epidermis is particularly fragile and only loosely held together. Epidermolysis bullosa simplex is an autosomal dominant disease, which means that only one parent needs to have the mutation to pass it on to their offspring.
Pus-filled blisters may burst spontaneously on the skin of a person with epidermolysis bullosa simplex. Friction with clothes or bedding, excessive heat or cold, and sweating are possible triggers that can worsen the condition. Blisters usually don’t cause much pain, but they can feel tender and make certain activities uncomfortable. Epidermolysis bullosa simplex is most often isolated on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet. It is possible, however, to experience widespread outbreaks on the legs, arms, torso, scalp or face.
A child who develops blisters should be evaluated by a pediatrician to check for signs of epidermolysis bullosa simplex and other types of skin disorders. In addition to performing a physical evaluation, a doctor usually collects a small sample of your skin and blood so that genetic testing can be done. There is no clear cure for epidermolysis bullosa simplex, although a doctor can provide information on symptom management techniques once the diagnosis is confirmed.
Parents of children diagnosed with epidermolysis bullosa simplex are instructed to closely monitor changes in the appearance or frequency of blisters. Getting your children to wear loose shoes, socks, and clothing may be able to prevent rapidly recurring outbreaks. Blisters tend to heal faster when drained, so parents can be given instructions on how to safely pop them with sterile needles and dress wounds to prevent infection. Older children, adolescents and adults affected by the condition receive useful advice on proper hygiene and skin care.
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