Fingertip eczema is a form of eczema that is located on one or more fingertips. If the eczema is also present on other parts of the hand, it is referred to as hand eczema. Fingertip eczema may affect the fingernails, causing them to become brittle or peel.
Fingertip eczema causes a dry, flaky rash. Often, the skin on the fingertips peels. The dry skin may crack or appear thick and wrinkled.
The skin may become red, cracked, and even bleed. If the fingertip eczema is bleeding, special care needs to be taken to avoid infection. The person should consult a physician for treatment, especially if there are any signs of infection.
Some people with fingertip eczema report feeling a tingling sensation in the affected fingertips. People with fingertip eczema may suffer from pain and discomfort. The fingers may hurt during normal activities. People may also feel self-conscious about the rash on their hands.
The cause of fingertip eczema is not thoroughly understood. In some cases, it may be the result of being on contact with allergens such as chemicals or soaps. Some people with eczema may experience more frequent flare-ups of eczema in the winter.
The physician is likely to ask questions about the patients activities and history of rashes when diagnosing fingertip eczema. The physician will examine the rash. The information provided by the patient and examination of the rash are used to diagnose fingertip eczema since there are no tests for this condition.
Moisturizers are often the first treatment that is tried. If moisturizer fails to clear the symptoms of fingertip eczema, the physician may prescribe a topical steroid cream. Some dermatologists recommend the application of shortening after bathing to soften and moisturize the skin.
Some people only ever have one episode of fingertip eczema, but for many people this condition is recurrent. Frequently moisturizing the skin may help prevent flare-ups.
Frequent hand-washing and prolonged exposure to hot water should be avoided by people with fingertip eczema. If the person has to wash dishes by hand or have prolonged contact with hot water, rubber gloves should be used.