Prevalence of eczema and other dermatoses of the hands and arms in the Netherlands. Association with age and occupation

Abstract

In a sample of about 3000 adults the hands and arms were examined for the presence of skin disorders. The most important diagnostic category was eczema; prevalence among males was 4.6% and among females it was 8%. In the majority of patients with eczema irritant factors were found to play a role. Among males occupation was a major factor associated with prevalence of eczema. After correction for occupation there remained no association with age.