Diagnostic criteria for palmoplantar hyperhidrosis

  Palmoplantar hyperhidrosis is mainly characterized by sweaty palms and soles of the feet. In mild cases, the palms are only moist, while in severe cases, the palms can produce beads of sweat visible to the naked eye. In severe cases, the palms of the hands may produce beads of sweat that are visible to the naked eye. Because the skin of the hand is often moist and soaked, the palm of the hand molts significantly and is often accompanied by dermatitis. In winter, cold and wet extremities can lead to frostbite and skin ulceration. Patients often have sweaty palms since childhood or adolescence, which affects daily life and work. The sweaty hands tend to affect the dexterity of the hands and interfere with manual operations. Patients avoid shaking hands with others, which affects interpersonal communication and creates avoidance and anxiety. The survey showed that 50% of the patients felt a lack of self-confidence and 38% of the patients had a sense of frustration. The number of patients with a sense of depression also reaches about 20%.  The diagnosis of palmoplantar hyperhidrosis can be made based on the clinical manifestations and sweating characteristics.  In 2004, John Hornberger of the American Academy of Dermatology organized a collaborative group of experts from more than 20 institutions to develop a diagnostic reference standard.  The diagnosis is confirmed if the hyperhidrosis has been visible to the naked eye for at least 6 months without obvious cause and if two of the following conditions are met: 1) Bilateral symmetry of the sweating areas.  2. At least one episode a week.  3. The age of onset is less than 25 years.  4. Positive family history.  5. No excessive sweating during sleep.  6.Interference with daily work life.