Hands itch and develop small bumps that become more itchy when scratched—what could be the cause?

Itching and the appearance of small lumps on the hands that worsen with scratching may be caused by various skin conditions, mainly including eczema, dyshidrotic eczema, contact dermatitis, urticaria, and tinea manuum (hand fungus). 1. **Eczema**: May be triggered by certain foods, allergens, or inhalants, leading to inflammation of the hand skin, accompanied by papules and itching. 2. **Dyshidrotic eczema**: Caused by fungal infections (such as dermatophytes) or mental stress factors, characterized by blisters and itching on the hands. 3. **Contact dermatitis**: Papules and itching may appear after the hand skin comes into contact with toxic, irritating, or allergenic exogenous substances. 4. **Urticaria**: Often caused by drug allergies, infections, or autoimmune reactions, leading to edematous reactions on the hands such as swelling, itching, and wheals. 5. **Tinea manuum (hand fungus)**: Caused by infection with dermatophytes, presenting symptoms such as scaling and itching.