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Skin disorders in chronic psychiatric illness
E J Mookhoek1, P C M Van De Kerkhof, J E J M Hovens
1Department of Pharmacy, Division of Pharmacotherapy and Pharmaceutical Care, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
Summary
Chronic psychiatric patients frequently experience skin diseases, with a significant number having undiagnosed conditions. Diabetes and overweight increase the risk of infectious skin disease in this population.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Chronic psychiatric patients exhibit a higher predisposition to dermatological conditions.
- Epidemiological data on skin diseases in this demographic are notably limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To ascertain the prevalence of self-reported skin complaints.
- To determine the incidence of diagnosed dermatological disorders among residents of psychiatric facilities.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 91 psychiatric patients was randomly selected from residential wards.
- Participants completed a structured interview regarding skin health.
- A comprehensive physical examination of the skin was performed for each patient.
Main Results:
- A high prevalence of skin issues was observed, with 69% reporting symptoms and 77% exhibiting disorders upon examination.
- A significant portion (37%) had diagnosed skin disorders not disclosed during the interview.
- Diabetes (OR 10.9) and overweight (OR 7.4) were linked to increased infectious skin disease. Women reported more complaints (OR 6.4).
- Clozapine use showed an association with benign skin neoplasms, warranting further research.
Conclusions:
- A substantial number of chronic psychiatric patients suffer from undiagnosed skin problems, highlighting the need for routine dermatological assessment.
- Patients with diabetes mellitus face a heightened risk of developing skin infections.
- The study suggests a potential link between atypical antipsychotics, overweight, and diabetes, contributing to severe dermatological complications.
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