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Dermatologic infections in cancer patients
Mona Gandhi1, Joaquin C Brieva, Mario E Lacouture
1Division of Dermatology, John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County, 1900 W. Polk Street, Administration Building, Room 519, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA, mona.gandhi1@gmail.com.
Abstract:
Dermatologic infections are among the most commonly experienced complications of cancer and anti-cancer therapy. Alterations in host immune function secondary to the underlying malignant process and/or its treatment have been linked to an increase in the risk of infections. The skin and its appendages (i.e., hair and nails) represent the first line of defense against infectious microorganism; its dysfunction as a physical barrier and an immunologic organ in cancer patients leads to an increased susceptibility to infectious organisms. Moreover, a cancer patient's vulnerable state facilitates dissemination of infections to other sites, secondarily involving the skin. This chapter delineates dermatologic infections that are unique to cancer patients as a result of their underlying malignancies and associated comorbidities as well as those resulting from antineoplastic therapies.
Insights
Cancer patients frequently develop skin infections due to weakened immune systems from cancer and its treatments. This increases susceptibility to infections affecting the skin and other body parts.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Dermatologic infections are common complications in cancer patients.
- Cancer and its treatments impair immune function, increasing infection risk.
- Skin acts as a barrier; its compromise in cancer patients heightens susceptibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review dermatologic infections in cancer patients.
- To discuss infections unique to malignancies and comorbidities.
- To cover infections arising from antineoplastic therapies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of dermatologic infections in oncology.
- Analysis of immune system alterations in cancer.
- Synthesis of information on cancer-related skin conditions.
Main Results:
- Cancer patients exhibit increased risk for various skin infections.
- Underlying malignancies and treatments predispose to unique dermatologic conditions.
- Compromised skin barrier function is a key factor in infection development.
Conclusions:
- Dermatologic infections are a significant concern in cancer care.
- Understanding these infections is crucial for patient management.
- Specific infections require tailored approaches in immunocompromised individuals.
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