Eczema or dermatitis of the hands is an inflammation and irritation of the skin that have several causes. There are different types of dermatitis that fall into two groups, those of internal cause and those of external cause. The following are examples of internal cause eczema : Atopic eczema; Dyshidrotic eczema; Nummular eczema. Eczemas of external cause : Are more frequent; Its causes can be allergic or irritating. Generally, eczema begins with dry and cracked hands, which then become red, inflamed and descamating skin. External cause eczema or dermatitis of the hands Dermatitis or eczema of the hands of an external cause is a very common problem and an important reason for seeking the care of a dermatologist. It is estimated to affect 10%-15% of people, of any age; The tendency for its occurrence can be hereditary; It is not a contagious disease. The identification of allergic causes can be done through personal history and confirmed by epicutaneous tests. Allergic contact dermatitis is less common than irritant dermatitis. One of its most frequent causes is allergy to latex. Irritating causes represent most cases of hand dermatitis and are, for example: The frequent and long immersion of the hands in water; Contact with dry air; Contact with detergents or other cleaning products, solvents and many other chemicals; Use of rubber gloves repeatedly and for prolonged periods. When a problem of eczema of the hands is already present, many banal products can later worsen it. Some professional groups are particularly affected by this problem, as they deal daily with chemicals irritating to the skin. This is the case, for example, of health professionals, hairdressers, domestic workers, painters, among others. Treatment of eczema or dermatitis of the hands and protective care If you have problems with eczema or dermatitis of the hands, seek care and follow the advice of a dermatologist. Treatment To decide on the most appropriate treatment, which can only involve avoiding contact with certain substances, it is important to identify the cause of eczema . The possibility of being a bacterial or fungal infection, as well as a dermatological disease, such as psoriasis, should be excluded. Although these are rarer possibilities, it may be associated with dermatitis of the hands. Most often, the treatment of eczema or dermatitis of the hands includes local drugs, in cream or ointment, hydration and avoiding contact with the causal agent. It may take several weeks to recover, and hands to get their normal appearance. Protective care cannot be neglected, or, in a very short time, the problem will reappear. Hand protection care Maintaining hand protection care is also important as a preventive measure . These precautions include, for example: Protect the hands with gloves when washing dishes or clothes; When washing hands, remove the soap well, remove first the rings or other adornments that are used, or pay special attention to soap residues that may stick; In cold weather, wear gloves, as cold and wind dry the skin; Apply repeatedly, throughout the day, moisturizing creams to restore the skin barrier and microbiome. In pandemic times, these basic hand protection precautions are even more important. With frequent hand washing and the use of alcohol-based disinfectant, which are essential to protect ourselves, the integrity of the skin can be impaired. Therefore, hydration should be more frequent, and care should be reinforced . Author : José Campos Lopes Meet the dermatology team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
