16th July 2026

Clinical features

Eczema Herpeticum is commonly seen as a complication of atopic dermatitis. It is characterised by monomorphic painful and itchy blisters with punched out lesions, and new blisters have a central dimple (umbilication). It is caused by Herpes Simplex Virus(HSV)Type 1 or 2. It can also happen in non-eczematous conditions such as thermal burns and psoriasis. The patient can be very unwell and present with fever and swollen lymph nodes. Eye involvement will require urgent ophthalmology attention.