Multimodal Approach for the Management of Hunan Hand Syndrome: A Case Report

Abstract

Hunan hand syndrome, a form of painful contact dermatitis, is a rare case finding. It is usually seen in people with continuous and prolonged exposure to chili peppers. The main ingredient in chili peppers is capsaicin that leads to the clinical condition, Hunan hand syndrome. This is paradoxical to the use of capsaicin as local application for relief of pain in various clinical situations, such as diabetic neuropathy and postherpetic neuralgia. We report a case of Hunan hand syndrome, managed successfully by using a multimodal approach comprised of a continuous stellate ganglion block, gabapentin, local ice water, and fluocinonide application.

A study on health hazards in dry chili market workers in the age group of 16 to 55 years old

“…(Chi sq = 24.32, df= 1, p < 0.001 It shows the there is a significant increase in the respiratory, skin and eye related problems. There is an increase in the respiratory problems such as cough arising due to the handling of the chili powder is also supported by some other studies 18 . The origin of any respiratory problem can be traced to the effect of the fine particulate matter in the development of the COPD.…”

Botanical Briefs: Handling the Heat From Capsicum Peppers

“…If the reaction is severe and persistent, a continuous stellate ganglion block may alleviate the pain of capsaicin-induced contact dermatitis. 9…”

“…It also is used to treat diabetic neuropathy, 5 postherpetic neuralgia, 6 psoriasis, 16 and other conditions. Studies have shown that capsaicin might be useful in treating trigeminal neuralgia, 17 fibromyalgia, 18 migraines, 14 cluster headaches, 9 and HIV-associated distal sensory neuropathy. 5 Delivery of Capsaicin-Capsaicin preferentially acts on C-fibers, which transmit dull, aching, chronic pain.…”