Vesicles are linked to many conditions. They may appear along or in multiples, depending on the cause.
What are Vesicles?
Vesicles are simply small fluid-filled blisters. They typically range in size from 5 to 10mm.
Vesicles are fragile and can easily break, both spontaneously or when intentionally ruptured. Once the fluid is drained from a vesicle, it becomes dry and crusty before healing.
Causes of Vesicles
There are numerous conditions associated with the development of vesicles, or blisters. Some of these include:
- Allergic reactions to medications
- Eczema
- Contact dermatitis
- Certain skin diseases
- Chicken pox
- Herpes simplex (fever blister) or herpes zoster (shingles)
- Impetigo
Since there are so many conditions associated with vesicles, it’s a good idea to have your dermatologist examine the blisters to determine the cause. Some conditions associated with vesicles are contagious and require medical treatment.
Diagnosing the Cause of Vesicles
Sometimes a dermatologist can determine the condition that caused vesicles to develop upon visual examination. In other cases, it may be necessary to send the fluid content of a blister for lab analysis.
Rarely, skin biopsy may be needed in cases where diagnosis is difficult or complicated.
Treatment of Vesicles
Treatment of the condition that caused the vesicles to form varies from case to case. Some conditions require medical treatment, while others need only supportive care.
The vesicles themselves should be left intact and allowed to resolve on their own, if possible. Popping a vesicle can lead to a risk of infection.
Call your dermatologist if fever, chills, pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, muscle aches or other signs of illness develop.
