Cutaneous infections in blacks

We have described briefly a variety of cutaneous infections seen commonly but not exclusively in blacks. Some disorders are prevalent in blacks because of geography (high temperatures, humidity), environment, and low socioeconomic status causing over-crowding, malnutrition, and poor or delayed access to medical care. Only a few occur as a result of the unique way black hair or skin responds to trauma or infection. Physicians managing black patients with dermatologic problems should be aware of and must consider all the factors that initiate, aggravate, and perpetuate cutaneous responses under these conditions.