May also be called: EH Eczema herpeticum (EX-eh-muh her-PET-ih-kim) is a skin infection that occurs when the skin becomes infected by herpes simplex (the type of viruses that causes cold sores). More to Know EH is more likely in those who have eczema, an ongoing skin condition that causes itchy rashes and weakened skin. It also can occur in people with some other skin disorders. Symptoms may include painful red blisters (filled with fluid or pus) or sores, fever, swollen glands, and tiredness. The infection can spread quickly to the eyes or internal organs, causing serious problems, so prompt treatment is very important. Doctors prescribe an antiviral medication to help the body fight the herpes simplex virus. The health care team may initially give this through an IV in the hospital. Bacteria can infect the sores, so the doctor may also prescribe an antibiotic. Keep in Mind Blisters usually go away within 2–6 weeks. A person can get eczema herpeticum more than once. All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts. Back to Articles Related Articles Word! Eczema If your skin has ever been super itchy, red, and dry, you might know about eczema. Read More Eczema Eczema is a common skin problem among teens. If you have eczema, read this article to find out more about it and how you can deal with the skin stress. Read More Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) Eczema can be an itchy nuisance and cause scratching that makes the problem worse. Many kids who have eczema today will be over it by the time they're teens. Read More Eczema Everybody has dry skin once in a while, but eczema is more than just that. If your skin is dry, itchy, red, sore, and scaly, you may have eczema. Learn more about this uncomfortable condition and what you can to do stop itching! Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.