Sign in

or Register now

MySkinCareConnection.com

See all of our health sites at www.HealthCentral.com
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
  • Font size
  • Bookmark
  • Save

Vesicles

Bullous pemphigoid, close-up of tense blisters
Bullous pemphigoid, close-up of tense blisters
Chigger bite - close-up of blisters
Chigger bite - close-up of blisters
Hand, foot, and mouth disease on the soles
Hand, foot, and mouth disease on the soles
Herpes simplex - close-up
Herpes simplex - close-up
Herpes zoster (shingles) - close-up of lesion
Herpes zoster (shingles) - close-up of lesion
Poison ivy on the knee
Poison ivy on the knee
Poison ivy on the leg
Poison ivy on the leg
Vesicles
Vesicles
Definition

A vesicle is a small fluid-filled blister.

See also: Bulla


Alternative Names

Blisters


Considerations

A vesicle is small -- it may be as tiny as the top of a pin or up to 5 or 10 millimeters wide.

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.


Common Causes

Many diseases and conditions can cause vesicles. Some common examples include:

  • Allergic reactions to drugs
  • Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
  • Blistering skin diseases including porphyria cutanea tarda and dermatitis herpetiformis
  • Chicken pox
  • Contact dermatitis (may be caused by poison ivy)
  • Herpes simplex (cold sores, genital herpes)
  • Herpes zoster (shingles)
  • Impetigo


Review Date: 05/02/2009
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).
  • Font size
  • Bookmark
  • Was this helpful? Yes
  • Save

Ask a Question

Get answers from our experts and community members.

View all questions (908) >
Free Newsletter
Get weekly updates, news alerts and more on Skin Care and related health conditions.