Hard skin on both sides of the fingers
May 15, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
Hardened skin on the sides of the fingers is usually caused by calluses, hand eczema, palmoplantar keratoderma, or similar conditions. Patients should visit a正规 hospital and, under the guidance of a doctor, receive appropriate treatment based on their specific condition. This condition is also known as a corn. If the patient frequently uses their fingers for labor-intensive tasks, the skin on the sides of the fingers may become thickened due to prolonged friction and wear, leading to this condition.
Hardened skin on the sides of the fingers is usually caused by conditions such as calluses, hand eczema, or palmoplantar keratoderma. Patients should visit a reputable hospital and, under medical guidance, receive appropriate treatment based on their specific condition. Details are as follows:
1. Calluses
This condition, also known as corns or blisters, may develop when excessive manual labor causes prolonged friction or pressure on the sides of the fingers, leading to thickening of the skin's outer layer (hyperkeratosis). Typically, this condition is not painful and itching is minimal; it mainly presents as hardened, peeling skin on the finger sides. Special treatment is generally unnecessary—soaking the hands in warm water can provide some relief.
2. Hand Eczema
If a patient has hardened, peeling skin on the sides of the fingers along with rough, thickened skin, it may be due to hand eczema. Hand eczema has multiple causes and is commonly associated with endogenous factors and external contact triggers, such as exposure to irritants or infections. Patients should seek care at a reputable hospital and, under a doctor’s supervision, may use medications like tretinoin cream or salicylic acid ointment for treatment.
3. Palmoplantar Keratoderma
Hardened skin on the sides of the fingers may also result from this condition, which is influenced by genetic factors and often appears from childhood in most affected individuals. Patients should visit a proper medical facility where treatments such as tazarotene gel or urea ointment may be prescribed.
Besides the above, other possible causes include scleroderma, hyperkeratotic tinea manuum (fungal infection), psoriasis, and similar conditions. It is recommended that patients maintain good local hygiene in daily life, minimize contact with allergens or irritants, and prevent recurrence of symptoms.
