During each eczema flare-up, Thuc's palms and finger webs developed blisters, intense itching, followed by cracking and peeling. This condition frequently recurred.

Master, Doctor Vu Thi Thuy Trang, a specialist in Dermatology and Aesthetic Dermatology at Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City, diagnosed Thuc with severe hand eczema. This chronic skin inflammation tends to recur frequently, linked to a disrupted skin barrier and abnormal immune responses.

Hands are often the most severely affected area due to constant exposure to water, soap, sanitizers, detergents, and daily friction. When the skin's protective barrier is weakened, environmental irritants can easily penetrate, leading to prolonged inflammation.

Doctors examine Thuc's hand eczema. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*.

The doctor observed signs of chronic damage on Thuc's hand skin, resulting from years of disease recurrence and prolonged corticosteroid use. According to Doctor Trang, corticosteroids are an important class of drugs in treating eczema. However, misuse can thin the skin and reduce the natural protective capacity of the skin barrier.

Doctor Trang prescribed a treatment regimen combining oral medication and topical anti-inflammatory drugs, along with measures to restore Thuc's skin barrier. He needs to limit exposure to irritants, use gloves when necessary, and moisturize regularly.

After one week of treatment, the itching and inflammation decreased. The cracked skin and fingertips gradually recovered, and the peeling was controlled, allowing him to regain his fingerprints. Thuc can now carry out normal daily activities and hold objects without the previous pain or discomfort.

When experiencing persistent dry, itchy, blistering, peeling, or repeatedly cracking hand skin, patients should seek medical examination early. This allows doctors to diagnose and treat correctly, limiting chronic damage.

Minh Huong

*Character's name has been changed