The development of a protocol for diagnosing hand dermatitis from photographic images.

Background: A hand photography protocol was needed to ascertain the presence and severity of dermatitis in a trial testing the effectiveness of a behaviour change intervention to prevent hand dermatitis in nurses.

Methods: We developed the protocol in 3 stages: (1) we established a procedure for collecting hand photographs; (2) we conducted a stepwise validation process to agree rules for diagnosing and determining the severity of hand dermatitis; and (3) we trained a research nurse to screen out "clear" cases.

Results: We developed and trained fieldworkers (n = 97) in a procedure for collecting hand photographs.

Randomised controlled trial of silk therapeutic garments for the management of atopic eczema in children: the CLOTHES trial.

Background: Atopic eczema (AE) is a chronic, itchy, inflammatory skin condition that affects the quality of life of children and their families. The role of specialist clothing in the management of AE is poorly understood.

Objectives: To assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of silk garments for the management of AE in children with moderate to severe disease.

Silk garments plus standard care compared with standard care for treating eczema in children: A randomised, controlled, observer-blind, pragmatic trial (CLOTHES Trial).

Background: The role of clothing in the management of eczema (also called atopic dermatitis or atopic eczema) is poorly understood. This trial evaluated the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of silk garments (in addition to standard care) for the management of eczema in children with moderate to severe disease.

Methods And Findings: This was a parallel-group, randomised, controlled, observer-blind trial.