What is the cause of palm dermatitis (dermatitic eruption) related to menstruation (period)?

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Last updated: May 12, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Palm dermatitis related to menstrual cycles, also known as palmar dermatitis or palmoplantar dermatoses, can be effectively managed with oral PUVA therapy, as recommended by the British Association of Dermatologists 1. When considering treatment options for palm dermatitis related to menstrual cycles, it's essential to evaluate the severity of symptoms and potential triggers.

  • The condition may be linked to hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, which can cause skin eruptions and inflammation.
  • Topical corticosteroids, such as betamethasone 0.05% cream, can be applied twice daily during flare-ups to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms 1.
  • For more severe cases, oral antihistamines like cetirizine 10mg daily may help control symptoms, and hormonal therapies like combined oral contraceptives can help stabilize hormone levels and prevent flares.
  • However, according to the British Association of Dermatologists guidelines 1, oral PUVA should usually be considered as the first-line PUVA treatment for patients with palmoplantar dermatoses, making it a viable option for managing palm dermatitis related to menstrual cycles.
  • It's crucial to note that PUVA therapy should be carried out under the supervision of a specialist unit experienced in managing this disease, with full knowledge of the individual patient's action spectrum 1.
  • Additionally, good skin care with gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers can help maintain the skin barrier and reduce symptom severity.
  • Keeping a symptom diary to track outbreaks in relation to the menstrual cycle can help confirm the pattern and guide treatment timing.

From the Research

Palm Dermatic Eruption Related to Period

  • There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that links palm dermatic eruption to the menstrual period.
  • However, some studies discuss various skin conditions that may cause palm dermatic eruptions, such as dyshidrotic eczema 2 and atopic dermatitis 3, 4.
  • Dyshidrotic eczema is a recurrent vesicular eruption that can affect the palms and soles, and is characterized by pruriginous vesicles that can appear suddenly 2.
  • Atopic dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin disorder that can cause skin eruptions, including on the palms, and is often treated with topical therapies such as corticosteroids and calcineurin antagonists 3, 4.
  • Topical corticosteroids, such as clobetasol propionate, can be effective in treating various skin diseases, including atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, but can also have local and systemic side effects 5, 6.
  • It is possible that hormonal changes during the menstrual period could trigger or exacerbate certain skin conditions, but this is not directly addressed in the provided studies.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Topical agents for the treatment of atopic dermatitis.

Expert review of clinical immunology, 2019

Research

Clobetasol propionate--where, when, why?

Drugs of today (Barcelona, Spain : 1998), 2008

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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