Chinese Journal of Dermatology ›› 2026, Vol. 59 ›› Issue (4): 327-332.doi: 10.35541/cjd.20250168

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Chronic hand eczema: epidemiology, disease burden, pathogenesis, and management

Chen Xue, Zhang Jianzhong   

  1. Department of Dermatology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China
  • Received:2025-03-31 Revised:2026-02-11 Online:2026-04-15 Published:2026-04-03
  • Contact: Zhang Jianzhong E-mail:rmzjz@126.com

Abstract: 【Abstract】 Chronic hand eczema is a type of inflammatory skin disease characterized by a prolonged course, diverse clinical manifestations, and multifactorial causes. It exhibits high prevalence in the general population, particularly among individuals in high-risk occupations with increased exposure to irritants or allergens, markedly affecting patients' social function, mental health, and quality of life. Currently, the clinical classification and diagnostic evaluation of chronic hand eczema remain challenging, compounded by persistent gaps in disease awareness, suboptimal treatment adherence, inadequate proactive therapeutic interventions, and insufficient patient education. This article synthesizes recent advances and ongoing challenges in the management of chronic hand eczema, aiming to enhance clinical recognition and optimize therapeutic decision-making to improve patient outcomes.

Key words: Eczema, Chronic hand eczema, Diagnosis, Therapy, Pathogenesis, Disease burden, Patient education