Hand eczema in Danish adolescents-Beyond atopic dermatitis.

Background: Hand eczema (HE) is a common inflammatory skin disease that may have serious consequences. The age of HE onset varies, but is estimated to be early- to mid-20s. However, very little is known about HE in childhood and adolescence.

Objective: We aimed to explore the epidemiology, aetiology and severity of HE among a random sample of Danish adolescents drawn from the general population.

Methods: The study was designed as a self-administered questionnaire study. An electronic questionnaire was sent to a random sample of 13 000 individuals aged 15-19 years.

Results: The point-prevalence, 1-year prevalence and life-time prevalence of HE among Danish adolescents was 4.9%, 12.1% and 18.3%, respectively. Among patients with a history of HE, 64.6% of cases were not associated with atopic dermatitis. Of all respondents, 60.2% were either part-time or full-time employed. Among respondents with current HE, 38.2% believed that the occupational exposures either caused or exacerbated the HE.

Conclusion: We found a high prevalence of HE among Danish adolescents which raises concern. Knowing the potential consequences that HE may have, attention should be paid to the prevention of HE in adolescence, especially on occupational aspects and prevention of skin disease in young workers.