Hand Eczema in the Polish Female Population.

BACKGROUND: This study aims to investigate the prevalence of hand eczema, its association with disinfectant usage during the COVID-19 pandemic, and potential correlations with age and dermatological history on hand symptoms in the Polish female population. METHODS: A personalized online questionnaire was administered from January to March 2021 to 142 participants, including individuals with hand eczema. The questionnaire addressed demographics, dermatological history, disinfectant usage, and symptoms experienced during the pandemic. RESULTS: The prevalence of hand eczema was higher in younger adults (aged 18-35), with significant exacerbations reported due to increased disinfectant usage. Respondents with a dermatological history were more susceptible to new skin symptoms during the pandemic. The quality of life was substantially impacted, particularly in individuals with hand skin dermatoses. CONCLUSIONS: The COVID-19 pandemic had a considerable influence on hand eczema, affecting prevalence, symptoms, and quality of life. Disinfectant usage emerged as a key factor in exacerbating hand skin lesions. Further research is warranted to explore the influence of specific disinfecting agents and improve treatment guidelines for personalized management of hand eczema. Despite limitations in the online survey method, these findings highlight the importance of proactive healthcare support for individuals with hand eczema during challenging times.

Questionnaire-Based Study Evaluating the Hand Hygiene Practices and the Impact of Disinfection in the COVID-19 Pandemic on Hand Skin Conditions in Poland.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, disinfection became an integral part of everybody's life in order to avoid spreading the coronavirus. In 2021, an original anonymous online survey was carried out. The questions concerned the usage of disinfectants. The study population included 56 subjects diagnosed by a physician with hand eczema (HE-derm group) and 114 subjects with no hand skin disease diagnosed by a specialist (non-derm). The HE and non-HE groups were distinguished. Nearly 80% of the HE group, and 10% of the non-HE group, experienced worsening of hand skin lesions caused by increased skin disinfection. HE-group respondents more often declared the occurrence of new hand skin symptoms, over 80% of the subjects of this group had more than 1 new symptom (compared to nearly 40% of the non-HE group). Exacerbations of the skin disease were more frequently observed by the HE group during the pandemic. There was a statistically significant decrease of the quality of life in the HE group compared to the non-HE group during the pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic caused an increase in the prevalence of hand skin symptoms and deterioration of the skin condition. Education on appropriate disinfection techniques and skincare, as well as early dermatological intervention, might allow us to limit the development of hand skin diseases.