When is topical antifungal treatment recommended for tinea manuum?

Tinea manuum is a fungal infection of the hand. It may cause dry scaling, peeling, itching, redness or cracks, sometimes mainly on one hand. Eczema, irritant dermatitis and psoriasis can look similar, so a diagnosis matters before treatment. A clinician also checks the feet and nails because fungus can affect more than one site. Topical medicine is more suitable when the affected skin is accessible and the infection is not extensive, deeply cracked or resistant to initial care.

Apply the advised antifungal to clean, completely dry skin, including the areas directed by your clinician. Wash hands after applying it unless the hands are the treated site and the product instructions say otherwise. Dry carefully between the fingers, use gloves for prolonged wet work, and do not share towels, nail tools or gloves. Have itchy or scaly feet checked as well, and avoid scratching because broken skin can become irritated or infected.

Get prompt advice if cracks become painful, red or swollen, if there is drainage, warmth or fever, or if movement is limited by swelling. Arrange reassessment when both hands are involved, the rash is spreading, the nails or feet are affected, or the skin is not improving with the advised treatment. Earlier review is sensible with diabetes or reduced immunity.

Ask whether the hand rash is fungal, whether your feet or nails should be examined, how to protect cracked skin, and when a different treatment or follow-up assessment would be needed.