Eczema herpeticum describes a severe primary infection of the skin by herpes simplex virus 1 or 2 which can spread rapidly in damaged atopic eczema skin especially if topical steroids are also used.
Uncommonly it can be caused by coxsackie virus
It is more commonly seen in children with atopic eczema and often presents as a rapidly progressing painful rash.
On examination, monomorphic punched-out erosions (circular, depressed, ulcerated lesions) usually 1–3 mm in diameter are typically seen.