Vesicles

Bullous pemphigoid, close-up of tense blisters

Chigger bite - close-up of blisters

Hand, foot, and mouth disease on the soles

Herpes simplex - close-up

Herpes zoster (shingles) - close-up of lesion

Poison ivy on the knee

Poison ivy on the leg

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

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Vesicles

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).