[Skin changes in long-term dialysis patients. clinical study].

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Nephrology
• Internal Medicine

Context:

• Regular hemodialysis is a life-sustaining treatment for end-stage renal disease.
• Patients undergoing long-term hemodialysis may experience various systemic complications.
• Dermatological manifestations are common but not fully characterized in this population.

Purpose:

• To investigate the clinicodermatologic changes in patients undergoing regular hemodialysis.
• To assess the correlation between the duration of hemodialysis and the incidence and severity of skin alterations.
• To explore potential systemic disturbances, such as collagen metabolism, in long-term hemodialysis patients.

Summary:

• Fifty-one regular hemodialysis patients were examined, divided into two groups based on dialysis duration (2-3 years vs. >8 years).
• A significant finding was premature skin aging (actinic elastosis) and increased skin pigmentation, both directly related to dialysis duration.
• Other observed issues included xeroderma, reduced glandular secretions, Raynaud syndrome, and generalized pruritus, with carpal-tunnel syndrome and Dupuytren's contractures noted in the long-term group.

Impact:

• The study highlights premature skin aging and altered collagen metabolism as significant long-term complications of regular hemodialysis.
• Findings suggest the need for dermatological monitoring in hemodialysis patients.
• Understanding these skin changes can lead to improved patient care and management strategies.