[Professional hand eczema and atopy. A clinical prospective study on correlation].

683 patients with hand eczema were examined for history and clinical signs of atopy. 242 of these patients suffered from occupational eczema. In more than 50% of this latter group we saw at least 3 references to atopy. This rate exactly corresponds to one established in 441 patients without industrial eczema but with predominantly definite atopic eczema. Thus, atopy exists largely in patients with occupational eczema and in fact furthers the incidence of this disease relevant in social medicine. Early diagnosis of atopy resulting in efficient vocational guidance can diminish the number of cases of industrial eczema.