Management of dermatologic complications of chronic graft versus host disease: a case study

The purpose of this article is to illustrate a multidisciplinary team collaborative approach to the management of dermatologic complications related to chronic graft versus host disease (GVHD). GVHD is a complication of allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT) and peripheral blood cell transplantation (BCT). The skin is affected in more than 80% of patients with chronic GVHD who received a BMT. Involvement can be limited or extensive and can seriously affect patient morbidity and mortality. Nursing care of the patient with chronic GVHD induces careful patient assessment, patient and family education, and interventions aimed at preventing or minimizing complications. A coordinated multidisciplinary team approach is essential for the successful management of chronic GVHD. Nurses play a critical role in coordinating the multiple disciplines involved in the care of patients with chronic GVHD.