From irritation to clinical resolution: An individualized homoeopathic case of chronic irritant contact dermatitis: A case report

Abstract

Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) is a common inflammatory skin disorder caused by repeated exposure to physical or chemical irritants such as soaps, detergents, and occupational agents. It commonly affects the hands and presents with erythema, scaling, fissuring, itching, and burning, significantly impairing quality of life. ICD accounts for nearly 80% of contact dermatitis cases globally, with higher prevalence among homemakers and individuals involved in wet work. Conventional treatment includes avoidance of irritants, topical corticosteroids, and emollients, which often provide temporary relief with frequent recurrence. Despite its high prevalence, systematic documentation of individualized homoeopathic management remains limited, highlighting a research gap. This case report describes a 29-year-old female with chronic irritant contact dermatitis of both palms, successfully managed with an individualized homoeopathic remedy, Calcarea sulphurica, selected based on symptom totality and constitutional evaluation. Complete clinical recovery without recurrence was observed during follow-up. This case highlights the potential role of individualized homoeopathic treatment in chronic ICD and emphasizes the need for further clinical research.