Compliance with tap water iontophoresis in patients with palmoplantar hyperhidrosis.

BACKGROUND: Patients tend to be noncompliant with tap water iontophoresis (TWI), which is an effective treatment option for palmoplantar hyperhidrosis.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate compliance with TWI in patients with palmoplantar hyperhidrosis and identify the factors limiting its utility.

METHODS: The medical data of 22 patients treated with TWI for palmoplantar hyperhidrosis were collected. A telephone inquiry questioning overall satisfaction with the treatment and the reasons for discontinuation was conducted.

RESULTS: Sixteen patients completed the initial treatment period, and all responded well to the therapy. Eight patients started on the maintenance treatment, five of whom gave up before completing five sessions. The reasons for discontinuation were a lack of time in 12 patients, switching to home therapy in 3 patients, and side effects in 1 patient.

CONCLUSION: Patients with palmoplantar hyperhidrosis are noncompliant with TWI, mainly due to a lack of time. They should be well informed before therapy and be encouraged to have a home device for maintenance.