Acrodermatitis is a childhood skin disorder that is characterized by mild symptoms like of fever and malaise. It can also be linked to hepatitis B and other viral infections.
Causes of Acrodermatitis
The cause of acrodermatitis is not understood clearly but it is well- documented. The surprising thing is that though the disease is linked with hepatitis B in Italian children, there is no such evidence among US children. The virus that causes acrodermatitis is Epstein-Barr virus (EBV, mononucleosis). There are other viruses also like cytomegalovirus, coxsackie viruses, parainfluenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV ) etc.
One of the rarest forms of acrodermatitis is acrodermatitis enteropathica. In this disorder, zinc is not absorbed properly. A zinc rich diet or zinc supplements can improve the condition.
Symptoms of acrodermatitis
* Rash or patch on skin
* Brownish or copper-colored patch that is hard and flat on top
* Skin bumps in a line formation
* The rash is not itchy and may appear on the palms and sole too
Other associated symptoms of acrodermatitis include swollen abdomen, swollen lymph nodes and tender lymph nodes.
Tests done to find out acrodermatitis and rule out other conditions
1. Serum zinc level test for acrodermatitis enteropathica
2. Skin biopsy
3. Bilirubin level tests
4. Liver enzymes test
5. Screening for EBV antibodies
Acrodermatitis treatment
Though it is not neccessary to treat acrodermatitis, infections that are associated with this condition can be treated, like hepatitis B and Epstein-Barr. Acrodermatitis typically disappears on its own without treatment or complication. However, the associated conditions must be watched carefully.
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by on 20. Apr, 2010 in Skin Care
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