Evaluating the patient presenting with hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is a debilitating condition that affects approximately 2.8% of the population. Patients experience reduced quality of life and face significantly impairment in social interactions and occupational activities. Primary focal hyperhidrosis stems from neurogenic overactivity involving normal eccrine glands, while secondary generalized hyperhidrosis is due to any one of a number of causes. Patient history, physical examination, and appropriate laboratory tests should rule out secondary causes of hyperhidrosis. For primary hyperhidrosis, rate and volume of sweat production and quality of life assessment can be determined.