Eczema herpeticum is a rare, but severe form of eczema. It is caused by an infection of the herpes simplex virus. Eczema herpeticum develops when an atopic dermatitis rash gets infected with the herpes simplex virus. It can be caused by herpes simplex virus type one or two.

In some cases, it can be caused by an infection of an atopic dermatitis rash by other viruses such as the vaccinia virus or coxsackievirus. An atopic dermatitis rash in not the only skin condition that can become infected and develop eczema herpeticum. This condition can affect burns or other eczema rashes.

Eczema herpeticum is considered a dermatological emergency. Atopic dermatitis and other forms of eczema can be extremely uncomfortable and even painful, but eczema herpeticum can be life threatening.

The symptom of eczema herpeticum is an extremely itchy rash that is red and inflamed. The eczema herpeticum rash typically forms five to twelve days after exposure to the herpes simplex virus. The rash may form blisters. Blisters from eczema herpeticum may contain pus. If the blisters break, the rash may become crusty. The blisters may bleed and erode which can be extremely painful. The rash from eczema herpeticum is susceptible to other infections which can cause more complications.

People with this serious skin condition develop a fever and swollen lymph nodes. The affected person is likely to feel ill similar to having the flu. The rash of the eczema herpeticum can spread over large portions of the body. If left untreated, eczema herpeticum typically runs its course and subsides in two to six weeks.

People who do not seek medical treatment run the risk of having severe complications that can be fatal. This potentially lethal skin condition can affect other parts of the body besides the skin. Eczema herpeticum can damage the brain, eyes, lungs, liver, and other vital organs.

Treatment for eczema herpeticum includes antiviral medications. The most commonly used medications are Acyclovir and Valaciclovir. Besides antiviral medications, the doctor may prescribe pain medications. If medical treatment is sought early, prognosis is often very good. Secondary infections of the eczema herpeticum rash may also need to be treated.

Like other forms of eczema, eczema herpeticum is a chronic, recurrent condition. There is no cure for eczema herpeticum, but the first outbreak is usually the most severe. Seeking treatment at the first sign of an outbreak can help prevent serious complications of eczema herpeticum.