Skin infections and contact allergies provoke inflammation and immune responses in the skin tissues. These responses often lead to the development of itching and the eruption of fluid-filled blisters, or vesicles, in the affected skin areas. In most cases, the blisters rupture and heal without scarring. Itching dissipates as the blisters resolve. Topical or oral treatments may help speed recovery and ease discomfort.
Impetigo
Impetigo is a common, bacterial infection of the superficial skin layers. The infection most commonly affects infants and young children. Fragile, fluid-filled blisters typically develop on the face, arms or legs. Although the blisters usually itch, they are not painful. Scratching or other skin friction ruptures the initial blisters, which leak infectious fluid. Touching the fluid and then another part of the skin typically leads to secondary crops of blisters.
In a March 2007 article published in the journal "American Family Physician," Drs. Charles Cole and John Gazewood report that Staphylococcus aureus and group A streptococcus remain the most common causes of impetigo. The infection usually clears without treatment within two weeks. Doctors often prescribe a topical antibiotic ointment to prevent the spread of infection and minimize discomfort. Oral antibiotics are typically reserved for patients with extensive skin lesions and those with a high risk for complications.
Herpes Simplex Infections
The herpes simplex viruses commonly infect the skin and moist surfaces of the body, causing episodic outbreaks of fluid-filled blisters. Common herpes simplex virus skin infections include cold sores, genital herpes and herpetic whitlow, a herpes infection of the fingers.
Itching, tingling or burning in a localized area of the skin often signals the onset of a herpes outbreak, notes the American Academy of Dermatology. Tiny fluid-filled vesicles form at the site of the abnormal skin sensations. The tender vesicles often itch or burn. Rupture of the vesicles releases the highly infectious fluid contents. Although herpes simplex infections persist for life, antiviral medications may decrease the number and duration of symptomatic outbreaks.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Allergic contact dermatitis is a form of eczema triggered by direct skin contact with an allergy-provoking substance. The American Academy of Dermatology reports on EczemaNet that more than 3,000 substances are known to cause allergic contact dermatitis, including nickel, chromate, gold, fragrances, leather, rubber and urushiol, a plant oil produced by poison ivy, sumac and oak.
The area of contact with the allergy-provoking substance typically appears red and swollen. Itching proves common. Fluid-filled blisters usually develop in the affected area. Rupture of the blisters leads to crusting and flaking. Intense inflammation may cause skin cracking and oozing. Topical steroid ointments or creams can help alleviate the discomfort of an acute case of allergic contact dermatitis. Long-term management involves avoiding contact with allergy-provoking substances.
