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Published on: February 17, 2021
Moisture-associated skin damage (MASD): A best practice recommendation from Wund-D.A.CH
Joachim Dissemond1, Bernd Assenheimer2, Veronika Gerber3
1Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Hospital Essen, Germany.
Summary
Wund-D.A.CH. developed best practice recommendations for moisture-associated skin damage (MASD), a condition caused by prolonged exposure to body fluids. This consensus addresses incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) and other MASD types, offering prevention and treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Wound Care
- Clinical Practice Guidelines
Background:
- Moisture-associated skin damage (MASD) encompasses various skin conditions resulting from prolonged exposure to body fluids like urine, stool, sweat, or wound exudate.
- Common MASD conditions include incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD), intertriginous dermatitis, gram-negative bacterial toe web infections, and toxic contact dermatitis (periwound/peristomal).
- These conditions involve skin integrity breakdown due to physical-irritative or chemical irritation, often influenced by comorbidities and cofactors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a best practice recommendation for the differentiated diagnosis and management of MASD.
- To address the diagnostic challenges in clinical practice due to a lack of uniform definitions and numerous differential diagnoses for MASD.
- To provide evidence-based strategies for the prevention and therapy of MASD.
Main Methods:
- Development of an expert consensus by Wund-D.A.CH., an umbrella organization for German-speaking wound treatment societies.
- Differentiated presentation of various MASD conditions, including incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD).
- Identification of common etiological factors and contributing comorbidities/cofactors.
Main Results:
- A comprehensive best practice recommendation for MASD has been developed.
- Key MASD conditions are systematically presented, aiding in differential diagnosis.
- Effective prevention and therapy strategies are outlined, including continence management, absorbent aids, skin protection, and skincare.
Conclusions:
- MASD diagnosis and management require an interdisciplinary and interprofessional approach.
- Consistent application of recommended prevention and therapy strategies is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
- Patient and relative education is an essential component of MASD management, covering origin, treatment, and prevention.
