Prevalence of Primary Palmar Hyperhidrosis and its Impact on Hand Grip Strength and Quality of Life

Abstract

Background: Primary palmar hyperhidrosis is a disorder resulting in abnormally excessive sweating of palmar side of hand. Patients present with cold and wet hands. It can also occur in combination with other areas like soles, axillae, and craniofacial region. Objective: To estimate prevalence of primary palmar hyperhidrosis in Faisalabad and its impact on hand grip strength and quality of life. Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at Dermatology departments of three tertiary care hospitals of Faisalabad, Pakistan. Sample size was calculated using formula. Both genders with age ranging from 15 to 65 years were selected as participants using convenient sampling. Participants filled self made form which included demographics, screening and valid and reliable quality of life measuring tools (HDSS and Keller scale). Then, after screening, grip strengths of hyperhidrotics (group 1) and non-hyperhidrotics (group 2) were measured using modified sphygmomanometer test (cuff method) and were compared. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22. Results: Prevalence of primary palmar hyperhidrosis was 15.5% (11/71) consisting of 6 females and 5 males. Age of onset occurred during 5-15 years. 63.64% patients had positive family history. 90.91% patients had normal (18.5-24.9) BMI. Mean right and left grip strength values of hyperhidrotic patients were 168.55±55.446 and 157.55±44.568, respectively. Mean right and left grip strength values in non-hyperhidrotic participants were 157.63±53.126 and 148.67±53.85, respectively. 54.55% patients reported 3 on HDSS. On Keller scale majority reported mild to severe distress especially when shaking hands with others, writing papers, driving cars, grasping heavy objects, and wearing gloves. Conclusion: Current study showed 15.5% prevalence rate of primary palmar hyperhidrosis. Hand grip strength values of hyperhidrotic patients were higher when compared with non-hyperhidrotic participants. Majority of patients reported barely tolerable sweating which resulted in mild to severe distress experienced during activities of daily living.