Blister
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- For the packaging type, see Blister pack.
A blister or bulla is a defense mechanism of the human body. It consists of a pool of lymph and other bodily fluids beneath the upper layers of the skin. It may be formed in response to burns or friction, and helps to repair damage to the skin. If a blister is punctured, it forms an open wound and should be bandaged to prevent bacteria and dust from entering the wound which could result in inflammation.
If a blister is associated with sub-dermal bleeding, it may partially fill with blood, forming an unpleasant blood blister.
Blistering is a distinguishing characteristic of second degree burns.
Certain autoimmune diseases feature extensive blistering. These include pemphigus and pemphigoid. Blistering also occurs as part of foodborne illness with Vibrio vulnificus (seafood).
The class of chemical weapons known as vesicants acts by causing blisters (often within the respiratory tract). Mustard gas and lewisite are examples of such agents.
See also
External links
- [How to Care for a Blister]
- [John Vonhof is an internationally known expert foot care for athletes, primarily runners. This page of his on "Happy Feet" bears directly on blister prevention.]
- [Backpack45 is a site focused on long distance hiking and this page deals with blisters.]
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