What is the diagnosis for multiple bullae (blisters) on the feet?

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Differential Diagnosis for Multiple Bullae on Feet

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Contact dermatitis: This is a common condition that can cause bullae on the feet due to irritation from shoes, socks, or other external factors. The presence of multiple bullae in this area suggests a reaction to an allergen or irritant.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Dyshidrotic eczema: Characterized by small, itchy blisters on the hands and feet, dyshidrotic eczema is a possible cause of multiple bullae on the feet.
    • Pompholyx: A type of eczema that affects the hands and feet, pompholyx can cause bullae and is often associated with excessive sweating.
    • Bullous impetigo: A bacterial infection that can cause bullae on the skin, bullous impetigo is a possible diagnosis, especially if the bullae are filled with a cloudy or purulent fluid.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Stevens-Johnson syndrome: A severe skin and mucous membrane disorder, Stevens-Johnson syndrome can cause bullae and is often associated with medication use or infection. It requires prompt recognition and treatment to prevent serious complications.
    • Toxic epidermal necrolysis: A life-threatening condition that causes widespread skin necrosis and bullae, toxic epidermal necrolysis is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
    • Autoimmune bullous disorders (e.g., pemphigus, pemphigoid): These conditions can cause bullae and are often associated with significant morbidity and mortality if left untreated.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Epidermolysis bullosa: A group of genetic disorders that cause blistering of the skin, epidermolysis bullosa is a rare condition that can present with bullae on the feet.
    • Bullous systemic lupus erythematosus: A rare manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus, bullous systemic lupus erythematosus can cause bullae on the skin, including the feet.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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