Spongiosis

Spongiosis is mainly intercellular[1] edema (abnormal accumulation of fluid) in the epidermis,[2] and is characteristic of eczematous dermatitis, manifested clinically by intraepidermal vesicles (fluid-containing spaces), "juicy" papules, and/or lichenification.

[3] It is a severe case of eczema that affects the epidermis, dermis or subcutaneous skin tissues.

[4] The three types of spongiotic dermatitis are acute, subacute and chronic.

[4] A dermatologist can diagnose acute spongiotic dermatitis by examining the skin during an office visit, but a biopsy is needed for an accurate diagnosis of the type.

The treatment varies depending on the type and severity; it is normally treated with topical corticosteroid cream.