Dermatophytids are fungus-free skin legions that sometimes develop as a secondary reaction to a fungal infection of the feet. The most common type of dermatophytid is inflammation of the hands, wrists or fingers stemming from a foot fungal infection (tinea pedis).
Dermatophytids do not result from touching the infected area but rather spring up on the body sporadically. Some experts say dermatophytids are allergic reactions to the fungus that is invading other parts of the body. The eczematous eruptions are almost always itchy and can vary in appearance from being red patches, fluid-filled bumps, bruise-like areas, red spots or hives.
Dermatophytids normally disappears after the original fungal infection that brought them on is treated. To relieve symptoms, your doctor or podiatrist or may recommend corticosteroid creams or anti-itch medications.
Though they are said to be rare infections, doctors believe dermatophytids are more common than usually reported.