Ann Dermatol.  2021 Aug;33(4):351-361. 10.5021/ad.2021.33.4.351.

2020 Korean Consensus Guidelines for Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Hand Eczema

• Kim HJ
• Bang CH
• Kim HO
• Lee DH
• Ko JY
• Park EJ
• Son SW
• Ro YS
• Korean Society of Contact Dermatitis and Skin Allergy

• KMID: 2517842
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5021/ad.2021.33.4.351

Abstract

Background
Hand eczema refers to eczema located on the hands, regardless of its etiology or morphology. Despite its high prevalence and significant impact on patients’ quality of life, treatment is frequently challenging because of its heterogeneity, chronic and recurrent course, and lack of well-organized randomized controlled trials of the various treatment options.
Objective
These consensus guidelines aim to provide evidence-based recommendations on the diagnosis and management of hand eczema to improve patient care by helping physicians make more efficient and transparent decisions.
Methods
A modified Delphi method, comprising two rounds of email questionnaires with face-to-face meetings in between, was adopted for the consensus process that took place between February and September 2020. Forty experts in the field of skin allergy and contact dermatitis were invited to participate in the expert panel.
Results
Consensus was reached for the domains of classification, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment; and a therapeutic ladder to manage chronic hand eczema was developed.
Conclusion
These are the first consensus guidelines for chronic hand eczema in the Asian population, which will help standardize care and assist clinical decision-making in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic hand eczema.

Keyword

Asian population; Chronic hand eczema; Consensus guidelines