Low-cobalt diet for dyshidrotic eczema patients.

BACKGROUND: Dyshidrotic eczema is a type of chronic intermittent dermatitis characterized by vesicles, dystrophic fingernail changes, and rarely bullae that affects the hands and feet. Many exogenous factors may trigger a flare including dermatophyte infections, contact irritants, and metal hypersensitivity. Although metal hypersensitivity does not play a role in all cases of dyshidrotic eczema, high oral ingestion of nickel and/or cobalt should be considered, regardless of patch test results.

OBJECTIVE: We updated and simplified existing published guidelines for low-cobalt diets. A recent review of the literature showed that dietary cobalt restriction, a safe yet burdensome treatment option for dyshidrosis, is referenced to dated sources.

METHODS: We have analysed current data for the cobalt content in common food items.

CONCLUSION: We propose a revised, point-based diet that will eliminate much of the dietary cobalt (and nickel) and reduce dyshidrotic eczema flares.