Resolution of dyshidrotic dermatitis of the hand after treatment with continuous positive airway pressure for obstructive sleep apnea

South Med J. 2002 Feb;95(2):253-4.

Abstract

Eczema of the palm and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are common disorders. Proinflammatory cytokines and cell adhesion molecules are elevated in both of these disorders. We describe an unusual patient with OSA who had recurrent free remission of dermatitis after treatment with continuous positive airway pressure. We speculate that the resolution of the patient's skin condition may reflect the effects of increased tissue oxygenation during sleep, reduced sleep fragmentation, and/or a reduction in sympathetic tone associated with successful sleep apnea treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Cytokines / metabolism
  • Eczema, Dyshidrotic / complications*
  • Eczema, Dyshidrotic / immunology
  • Eczema, Dyshidrotic / therapy*
  • Hand Dermatoses / complications*
  • Hand Dermatoses / immunology
  • Hand Dermatoses / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Positive-Pressure Respiration*
  • Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / complications*
  • Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / immunology
  • Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / therapy*

Substances

  • Cytokines