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Vesicles

Definition

A vesicle is a small fluid-filled blister on the skin.

Considerations

A vesicle is small. It may be as tiny as the top of a pin or up to 5 millimeters wide. A larger blister is called a bulla.

In many cases, vesicles break easily and release their fluid onto the skin. When this fluid dries, yellow crusts may remain on the skin surface.

Causes

Many diseases and conditions can cause vesicles. Common examples include:

  • Allergic reactions to drugs
  • Atopic dermatitis ()
  • Autoimmune disorders such as or
  • Blistering skin diseases including cutanea tarda and
  • (may be caused by poison ivy)
  • Herpes simplex (cold sores, )
  • (shingles)
  • Bacterial infections
  • Fungal infections
  • Burns
  • Friction
  • Treatment with cryotherapy (to treat a wart for example)

    • Home Care

    It is best to have your health care provider examine any skin rashes, including vesicles.

    Over-the-counter treatments are available for certain conditions that cause vesicles, including poison ivy and cold sores.

    When to Contact a Medical Professional

    Call your provider if you have any unexplained blisters on your skin.

    What to Expect at Your Office Visit

    Your provider will look at your skin. Some vesicles can be diagnosed simply by how they look.

    In many cases, additional tests are needed. The fluid inside a blister may be sent to a lab for closer examination. In particularly difficult cases, a may be needed to make or confirm a diagnosis.

    Treatment will depend on the cause of the vesicles.

    References

    Dinulos JGH. Vesicular and bullous diseases. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif's Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 16.

    Marks JG, Miller JJ. Vesicles and bullae. In: Marks JG, Miller JJ, eds. Lookingbill and Marks' Principles of Dermatology. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 10.

    Schedule An Appointment

    Contact Atlanta Obsetrics and Gynaecology at The Womens Center Millennium Hospital - 404-ATL-BABY

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    Review Date: 6/7/2023

    Reviewed By: Elika Hoss, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.