Bullae: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
- Bullae
- 14 Aug 2023
Overview
What is Bullae ?
Bullae are fluid-filled sacs that develop inside or beneath the epidermis or mucous membranes (plural: bulla). They can range from less than 1 cm to several centimeters in diameter and can be produced by several things.
They can appear as a solitary lesion or in groups and contain clear, murky, or bloody fluid.
Types
What are the other types?
Vesiculobullous eruptions
- Bullae can develop due to many different skin conditions, such as infections, allergic responses, and autoimmune diseases.
Pemphigus
- This autoimmune condition results in bullae and blisters on the epidermis and mucous membranes.
Pemphigoid
- Although less severe than pemphigus, this condition still results in the formation of bullae on the epidermis and mucous membranes. 1Types of bullae | Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
Bullous impetigo
- Bullae can develop on the skin due to this bacterial infection, usually in adolescents. 1Types of bullae | Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
Gestational bullous pemphigoid
- Bullae are the defining feature of this uncommon pregnancy-related pemphigoid.
Bullous epidermolysis
- Due to this genetic disease, the skin is extremely fragile and prone to blistering and bullae. 1Types of bullae | Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
Toxic epidermal necrolysis
- Large bullae and extensive skin damage are possible outcomes of this severe and possibly fatal skin reaction. 1Types of bullae | Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
Causes
What are the causes of bullae ?
Several factors can result in bullae, including:
Infections
- Bullae can develop due to bacterial, viral, and fungal diseases. Examples include thrush, herpes simplex infection, and bullous impetigo. 3Types of bullae | Researched based study from Clevelandclinic.org
Immune system diseases
- Some inflammatory diseases, including pemphigus and pemphigoid, can bring on Bullae.
Allergic reactions
- It can occasionally develop due to an allergic reaction to an insect bite, drug exposure, or contact with chemicals. 3Types of bullae | Researched based study from Clevelandclinic.org
Genetic disorders
- Specific genetic conditions like epidermolysis bullosa can cause skin fragility and a propensity for the development of bullae. 3Types of bullae | Researched based study from Clevelandclinic.org
Trauma
- It can occasionally develop due to physical trauma, like burns, friction, or an accident.
Exposure to cold or heat
- Extreme temperatures, such as exposure to hot surfaces or freezing conditions, can cause bullae to develop.3Types of bullae | Researched based study from Clevelandclinic.org
Adverse drug reactions
- Some medications, including diuretics and antibiotics, can occasionally result in bullae as a side effect. 3Types of bullae | Researched based study from Clevelandclinic.org
Symptoms
Symptoms of Bullae
Depending on the underlying reason and location, the symptoms can change. The following are some typical signs and symptoms: 3Types of bullae | Researched based study from Clevelandclinic.org
Blisters or fluid-filled sacs
- The appearance of fluid-filled sacs or blisters on the skin or mucous membrane identifies them.3Types of bullae | Researched based study from Clevelandclinic.org
Any soreness or pain
- It may occasionally hurt or be unpleasant, mainly if they are in places on the body that are vulnerable to pressure or friction.
Burning or itching
- Can result in burning or irritation, mainly if they are on the skin.
Swelling or inflammation
- If an illness or autoimmune condition is brought on the bullae, the skin around the bullae might be red or swollen. 3Types of bullae | Researched based study from Clevelandclinic.org
Oozing or draining
- It could rupture or explode occasionally, allowing the liquid inside to drain or ooze out.
Fever or additional systemic signs
- Fever, exhaustion, and other systemic symptoms can also occur. 3Types of bullae | Researched based study from Clevelandclinic.org
Diagnosis
How is it diagnosed?
Physical examination
- A physician will examine the bullae to determine their position, dimensions, and other details. They might also look for indicators of an illness. 2Diagnosis | Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
Medical history
- The doctor can inquire about any underlying illnesses or recent contact with irritants or allergies.
Diagnostic tests
- Your doctor might advise additional tests based on the probable cause. These could include blood tests to check for disease, imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans, or a skin biopsy to study the tissue under a microscope.2Diagnosis | Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
An allergy testing
- Your doctor might suggest allergy testing to identify the allergen if you think you might be having an allergic response. 2Diagnosis | Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
Treatment
Treatment methods
The underlying reason and the seriousness of the symptoms influence the course of treatment. Here are a few typical remedies:
Medical treatments
- Medicines that fight viruses or bacteria, such as antibiotics.
- Treatment for autoimmune diseases using steroids or other immunosuppressant drugs.
- Creams or ointments are applied topically to treat skin conditions or soothe irritation.
- Bullae should be drained or removed, mainly if they are large, uncomfortable, or in danger of rupturing. 4Treatment | Researched based study from Wiley.com
Household remedies
Using natural remedies can help to reduce the effects. They might consist of:
- To avoid infection, keep the affected region dry and clean.
- Using cool compresses to relieve discomfort or itch. Apply a cold compress for 15-20 minutes to the injured area using a clean, damp cloth or towel.
- Avoid wearing anything too constricting or shoes that could rub against the bullae.
- Using anti-itch creams and over-the-counter painkillers as instructed, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
- Use mild soap and water to wash the region gently, and then pat dry with a fresh towel. Avoid rubbing the area or using abrasive soaps.
- Wrap a clean, loose, non-adhesive bandage around the bullae to prevent further irritation.3Treatment| Researched based study from Clevelandclinic.org
Complications
Complications of Bullae
Infection
- Bullae can become infected if they are not treated correctly, which can cause additional problems like cellulitis, sepsis, or other systemic infections.
Scarring
- Bullae may occasionally result in scarring, mainly if they are big or rupture and heal incorrectly.
Impaired function
- Bullae present in the mouth, throat, or eyes can impair basic abilities like eating, speaking, or vision.
An infection’s spread
- When caused by infectious diseases that are transmitted through direct contact or airborne transmission, like chicken pox or shingles, they can affect others.
Symptomatic issues
- It may occasionally be a sign of a systemic disorder, such as cancer or an autoimmune disease, leading to additional problems. 6Complications | Researched based study from Nlm.nih.gov
Prevention
Preventive factors
Avoiding irritants
- If you are prone to getting bullae from being around irritants like chemicals or specific fabrics, stay away from them as much as you can.
Protecting the skin
- Wear protective clothing and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun and other environmental variables.
Maintain proper sanitation
- Maintain proper cleanliness to ward off infections. Avoid sharing personal items like towels or razors, clean and cover wounds, and frequently wash your hands.
The treatment of underlying medical problems
- Work with your doctor to handle any medical conditions that increase your risk of blister development.
Get vaccinated
- Vaccination can help lower your chance of developing bullae if you are susceptible to a viral infection like chicken pox or shingles. 5Prevention | Researched based study from Kidshealth.org
Emergency
When should I call the doctor?
- Bullae that are large or painful should be examined if they are more than a few centimeters in diameter or are causing a lot of discomforts.
- If the bullae are spreading as they disseminate quickly or appear in numerous locations on the body.
- A healthcare expert should examine Bullae that start to ooze pus, blood, or other fluids. Bleeding is also a concern.
- It is essential to be assessed if the bullae are present in sensitive areas like the mouth, eyes, or genitalia.
- If you have nausea, vomiting, fever, or other systemic symptoms in addition to the bullae, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
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References
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National Library of Medicine
Bullous Skin Diseases: Classical Types of Autoimmune Diseases | Types
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National Library of Medicine
Diagnosis and classification of autoimmune blistering diseases | Diagnosis
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Cleveland Clinic
Evaluation and medical management of giant bullae | Symptom | Causes | Treatment
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Wiley Online Library
Updated S2 K guidelines for the management of bullous pemphigoid initiated by the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) | Treatment
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Nemours Children's health
Blisters | Prevention
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National Library of Medicine
Bullous Emphysema | Complications