Genetic factors linked to dermatitis
Published: Feb. 1, 2008 at 9:06 PM
SAN ANTONIO, Feb. 1 (UPI) -- Applying lotion before hands are completely dry and cracked is one way workers can help prevent hand dermatitis, a U.S. dermatologist suggests.
Dr. Susan Nedorost of the University Hospitals Case Medical Center in Cleveland says research on test subjects showed that once the top layer of skin cracks due to frequent wet/dry cycles -- especially in conditions of low humidity where drying occurs rapidly -- inflammation results.
"Some had reactions to even low concentrations of detergent, indicating that they were at increased risk for hand dermatitis likely due to genetic factors," Nedorost says in a statement.
The study of 100 healthcare workers looked at risk factors linked to irritant contact dermatitis.
Data from the questionnaires and patch tests that were analyzed from 60 subjects who completed the study to date found that 63 percent of participants developed hand dermatitis. Twenty-two percent of participants who washed their hands more than 10 times per day developed hand dermatitis compared to 13 percent of those who washed their hands fewer than 10 times daily.
The findings are being presented at the 66th annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology in San Antonio.
Dr. Susan Nedorost of the University Hospitals Case Medical Center in Cleveland says research on test subjects showed that once the top layer of skin cracks due to frequent wet/dry cycles -- especially in conditions of low humidity where drying occurs rapidly -- inflammation results.
"Some had reactions to even low concentrations of detergent, indicating that they were at increased risk for hand dermatitis likely due to genetic factors," Nedorost says in a statement.
The study of 100 healthcare workers looked at risk factors linked to irritant contact dermatitis.
Data from the questionnaires and patch tests that were analyzed from 60 subjects who completed the study to date found that 63 percent of participants developed hand dermatitis. Twenty-two percent of participants who washed their hands more than 10 times per day developed hand dermatitis compared to 13 percent of those who washed their hands fewer than 10 times daily.
The findings are being presented at the 66th annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology in San Antonio.
© 2008 United Press International. All Rights Reserved.
This material may not be reproduced, redistributed, or manipulated in any form.
This material may not be reproduced, redistributed, or manipulated in any form.
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