Hand eczema

Severe cases of hand eczema caused by soaps and other irritants in the workplace may lead to prolonged sick leaves, according to a study reported in Archives in Dermatology, a Journal of American Medical Association publication. Occupational hand eczema (OHE) has been recognized as the most frequent occupational disease in many Western countries.

Hand eczema or dermatitis is redness or irritation of the hands, due to irritants in soap, chemicals or detergents. It starts as a mild intermittent complaint, but can become increasingly severe, with blisters, scaling and cracking that can spread to the forearms or feet. “It has become a disease of increasing importance because of its serious consequences, such as frequent eruptions and risk of prolonged sick leave,” according to the study.

Hand dermatitis is particularly common in industries involving cleaning, cooking and catering, metalwork, hairdressing, healthcare and mechanical work.

Employees who experience OHE should:

* avoid wet-work and contact with irritants
* protect hands with vinyl gloves, which are preferable to rubber
* use emollients frequently -- apply barrier cream to all affected areas before work
* use topical steroids to reduce inflammation
* use antibiotics to treat infection