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[Mucocutaneous infections in immunosuppression]
1Dermatologie, Universitätsspital, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Deutschland. peter.itin@unibas.ch
Der Internist
|December 23, 2008
Summary
The skin
Area of Science:
- Dermatology and immunology.
- Microbiology and virology.
Context:
- The skin's physical, chemical, and immunological defenses, including commensal microbes, protect against pathogens.
- Immunodeficiency, whether genetic, acquired (e.g., HIV), or drug-induced (transplant patients), compromises these protective mechanisms.
- Prolonged immune suppression can lead to atypical mucocutaneous infections and increased risk of viral-associated cancers.
Purpose:
- To provide an overview of skin's protective functions.
- To describe common mucocutaneous infections in immunocompromised individuals.
- To highlight the importance of early diagnosis and microbiological investigation.
Summary:
- Immunocompromised patients exhibit altered skin defenses, increasing susceptibility to infections and malignancies.
- Mucocutaneous manifestations like oral hairy leukoplakia serve as indicators of immune suppression.
- Biopsies for histology and microbiology are crucial for diagnosing infections and monitoring long-term viral effects.
Impact:
- Enhanced understanding of skin's role in immunity and the consequences of its compromise.
- Improved diagnostic strategies for mucocutaneous conditions in immunocompromised patients.
- Awareness of oncogenic viral risks (HPV, HHV8, EBV) in individuals with weakened immune systems.
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