Dermatological problems following spinal cord injury in Korean patients

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2015 · DOI: 10.1179/2045772313Y.0000000154 · Published: January 1, 2015

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Dermatology

Simple Explanation

This study examines the skin conditions that develop in people with spinal cord injuries (SCI). It looks at how these conditions relate to different aspects of the injury, such as its severity and location. The research found that infections, especially fungal infections, and eczematous lesions like seborrheic dermatitis, are the most common skin problems in SCI patients who are referred to dermatology clinics. The study emphasizes that while these skin issues may not be life-threatening, they can significantly reduce the quality of life for individuals with SCI, highlighting the need for proper skin care and regular check-ups.

Study Duration

March 2000 to March 2012

Participants

1408 SCI patients, 253 referred to dermatology

Evidence Level

Retrospective chart review

Key Findings

1
The most common dermatological condition was infectious (n = 123, 36.7%) followed by eczematous lesions (n = 109, 32.5%).
2
Ingrown toenail occurred more frequently in tetraplegics whereas vascular skin lesions occurred more commonly in patients with paraplegia (P < 0.05).
3
Xerotic dermatitis showed a higher occurrence within 12 months of injury rather than thereafter (P < 0.05).

Research Summary

This retrospective study reviewed the medical records of 1408 patients with SCI, identifying 253 patients who were referred to dermatology for skin lesions. The study aimed to understand dermatological findings in patients with acute and chronic SCI and define these conditions in relation to neurological characteristics. The most common dermatological conditions were infectious skin lesions, particularly fungal infections, and eczematous lesions, especially seborrheic dermatitis. The location and type of skin lesions were associated with the level and completeness of the spinal cord injury. The study concludes that although dermatological problems after SCI are not critical in SCI outcome, they negatively affect the quality of life. It emphasizes the importance of educating patients and caregivers about skin care and routine dermatological examinations.

Practical Implications

Enhanced Skin Care Education

Patients and caregivers should receive thorough education on appropriate skin care practices to prevent common dermatological issues following SCI.

Routine Dermatological Examinations

Regular dermatological check-ups should be integrated into the care plan for SCI patients to identify and treat skin conditions early.

Targeted Preventative Measures

Specific preventative measures should be implemented based on the level and completeness of SCI, such as focusing on fungal infection prevention below the NLI and seborrheic dermatitis above the NLI.

Dermatological problems following spinal cord injury in Korean patients

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Enhanced Skin Care Education

Routine Dermatological Examinations

Targeted Preventative Measures

Study Limitations

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Dermatological problems following spinal cord injury in Korean patients

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Enhanced Skin Care Education

Routine Dermatological Examinations

Targeted Preventative Measures

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?