Frequent hand washing by healthcare workers may be counterproductive if performed too frequently. Frequent hand washing increases the risk of developing hand contact dermatitis in healthcare workers, according to a study from University Hospitals Case Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio.

The study involved 111 healthcare workers who washed their hands at least 8 times a day. Of the 111 healthcare workers, 58% developed hand dermatitis to soaps, but use of an alcohol-based cleanser was not associated with dermatitis. Use of gloves also was not associated with contact dermatitis. Overall, 3% of participants developed hand contact dermatitis.

During the study the participants completed questionnaires about their medical and family histories, including allergies, asthma and eczema, frequency of hand washing, and use of hand sanitizers. The investigators conducted patch testing in the participants. They assessed the healthcare workers monthly for 6 months.

The researchers found a suggestion that sensitivity to the detergents on patch testing may have been linked to a somewhat increased risk for contact dermatitis.

Source: American Academy of Dermatology 66th Annual Meeting: Posters P700 and P709. Presented February 1, 2008.