What is Hand Eczema (Dermatitis)

Eczema, also called dermatitis. 'Hand dermatitis' is a broad term for any type of eczema that develops on the hands. Hand dermatitis often has unique causes, commonly job-related and can require specific testing and treatments.

How Common is Hand Dermatitis?

• An estimated 2% to 10% of the general population is affected by hand dermatitis.
• 20% to 35% of all dermatitis affects the hands.
• 9% to 35% of all occupational disease and up to 80% or more of all occupational contact dermatitis. Five occupations were responsible for more than 60% of these cases:
• 1-Housekeeper, 2-Bricklayer, 3-Worker in metallurgic or mechanical industry, 4-Hairdresser, 5-Health care worker
• higher than average risk include: janitors and housecleaners, florists, bakers, bartenders, caterers, cooks, and agricultural workers.

Risk Factors for Hand Dermatitis

• Medical condition-a history of atopic disease (atopic dermatitis, asthma, or hay fever) increases the risk
• Occupation -"Wet work" -hand washing, using chemicals and solvents can play a role.
• Stress-cmay worsen all types of eczema
• Environment-low humidity and cold weather strips skin of moisture which increases risk of developing some types of hand dermatitis. Alternately, sometimes heat and high humidity play a role. Perspiration under gloves can contribute to hand dermatitis

What Else Can Look Like Dermatitis

Psoriasis

• Well demarcated scaly plaques, with scales which may not be silvery.
• Psoriasis affecting the hands is most prominent over pressure points
• Usually relative lack of itching
• Often psoriasis elsewhere on body
• Nails may show features of psoriasis: pits, oil spots, subungual hyperkeratosis, splinter hemorrhages, onycholysis (lifting up of distal nail).
• Lichen Planus must be also considered