Iatrogenic Dermatoses in Hospitalized Patients

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Hospitalized patients are at risk of skin injury from drugs and procedures. These complications carry a high risk of morbidity, mortality, and internal organ involvement. This review examines updates in the treatment of drug eruptions and diagnosis of newly reported iatrogenic skin injuries that accompany novel procedures.

Recent Findings

Drug eruptions are a common cause of iatrogenic injury and they vary in presentation and severity. Recent research suggests that medications such as cyclosporine and etanercept may improve mortality in patients with epidermal necrosis although a randomized controlled trial is still needed. Innovative non-invasive procedures can have cutaneous complications such as radiation injury and microemboli. In immunocompromised patients, seemingly banal clinical manipulation such as application of medical tape can lead to cutaneous infection.

Summary

Physicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for iatrogenic injury when caring for the hospitalized patient. It is crucial to obtain a thorough medication and procedural history when evaluating these patients.