Trauma bullae (ie, friction blisters) are typically large bullae that are caused by physical forces.
They result from chronic pressure or friction on the skin, such as that from wearing tight shoes. They are most common on the palms and soles. They can be skin colored or red / purple from hemorrhage. They are usually painful and have a stinging or burning sensation for 1-2 days after the trauma.
Trauma bulla in Adult
Alerts and Notices
Synopsis
Codes
ICD10CM:
R23.8 – Other skin changes
SNOMEDCT:
70010000 – Friction blister
R23.8 – Other skin changes
SNOMEDCT:
70010000 – Friction blister
Look For
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Diagnostic Pearls
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita – Patients usually have a history of blisters at multiple sites with even minimal friction. Histopathology can confirm diagnosis.
- Epidermolysis bullosa simplex – Patients usually have a history of blisters at multiple sites on the hands and feet. Histopathology can confirm diagnosis.
- Bullosis diabeticorum – Patients have diabetes mellitus.
- Stasis bullae (see also stasis dermatitis) – More common symmetrically around the lower legs.
- Burns – Usually more geometric in shape in the area of thermal exposure.
- Bullous arthropod bites – Usually scattered and smaller bullae.
- Bullous fixed drug eruption – Round bullae, usually associated with more inflammation and red-brown plaques underlying the bullae.
Best Tests
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Management Pearls
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Therapy
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References
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Last Updated:08/31/2017
Trauma bulla in Adult