Tests
1st tests to order
clinical diagnosis
Test
Usually no tests are necessary.
Result
features of dyshidrotic dermatitis
Tests to consider
skin biopsy
Test
This test is rarely ordered, as dyshidrotic dermatitis is a clinical diagnosis. It is useful when other diagnoses, such as bullous disorders, palmoplantar pustulosis or psoriasis, are being considered.
Result
histology reveals spongiotic dermatitis of acral skin; immunofluorescence is negative
potassium hydroxide (KOH)
Test
KOH may be used to rule out bullous tinea, especially when clinical onychomycosis is present.
Result
negative
patch testing
Test
To evaluate contact allergy.
Possible allergens include personal hygiene products, occupational exposures, and metals.[20]
Result
numerous allergens are possible, including allergy to the corticosteroid used to treat the patient
skin scraping
Test
An epidermal scraping with mineral oil to evaluate for scabies infestation.
Consider this test if excoriated papules are present elsewhere on the body (other than the hands and feet).
Result
negative
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