Chronic hand eczema (CHE) is an often-overlooked skin condition that affects nearly 15.9 million people in the United States. Despite its prevalence, many healthcare providers struggle to fully comprehend the clinical complexity of the disease. A recent survey commissioned by LEO Pharma and conducted by Ipsos reveals significant challenges in diagnosing, treating, and managing this debilitating skin disorder.
A Complex Condition
Raj Chovatiya, MD, PhD, MSCI, Clinical Associate Professor at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science Chicago Medical School, describes CHE as “a multifactorial condition with overlapping morphologic and etiologic subtypes, making diagnosis and treatment both complex and burdensome.” Characterized by painful, itchy, cracked, and blistering skin, CHE presents unique diagnostic challenges, underscoring a need to learn more about the condition in order to develop improved strategies for effective, long-term management.
Survey Findings Reveal Key Gaps in CHE Management
The survey, which included a total of 192 dermatology healthcare professionals, uncovered several notable insights into the current state of CHE management, including:
- 65% of providers acknowledge a significant lack of education about CHE as a condition distinct from atopic dermatitis.
- 51% believe that current treatment options are insufficient for moderate-to-severe cases.
- Nearly two-thirds of those surveyed find CHE more challenging to manage compared to other chronic skin conditions like psoriasis.
The Patient Burden: More Than Just Physical Symptoms
Results from the survey also highlight the far-reaching impact of CHE on patients. Beyond the physical discomfort, individuals with CHE often face significant lifestyle disruptions, having to frequently navigate workplace challenges, social stigma, and daily functional limitations.
Patients also spend a considerable amount of time at the doctor’s office. According to dermatology professionals surveyed, patients with CHE average three to four medical visits per year. Additionally, treatment regimens are often complex, with many patients being prescribed multiple medications—24% of whom struggle with medication adherence, further complicating disease management.
Looking Ahead
The second phase of this survey is set to be released in Q2 of 2025, offering more comprehensive insights into how CHE impacts patients’ work and home lives.
Source:
- BioSpace. (2025, March 5). LEO Pharma Survey: Dermatology providers say chronic hand eczema is widely misunderstood and inadequately managed. https://www.biospace.com/press-releases/leo-pharma-survey-dermatology-providers-say-chronic-hand-eczema-is-widely-misunderstood-and-inadequately-managed
