Miliaria crystallina

When closure occurs somewhat deeper in the epidermis, in the granular layer, firm vesicles are formed accompanied by marked pruritus. Called miliaria rubra, or prickly heat, it is easily confused with contact dermatitis. This condition is more troublesome than miliaria crystallina because the eruption may be quite extensive and is accompanied by paroxysms of burning and itching. The lesions are small erythematous macules and vesicles unassociated with follicular openings a hand lens aids in observation. The lesions may appear a few days after exposure to a hot, humid environment, but most commonly appear after one to several months (Lillywhite 1992). 

Athletes may develop miliaria crystallina, miliaria rubra, and miliaria profunda the latter is the least common type. Predisposing factors include temperature extremes and occlusive clothing. Football players practicing during summer months are particularly susceptible (Eergfeld and Elston 1994). 

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