A Current Review of the Cutaneous Manifestations of Renal Disease

This review discussed the various cutaneous manifestations associated with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), noting that dermatologic conditions were common among these patients, with 50-100% experiencing at least one disorder. Hyperpigmentation was the most prevalent, pruritus affected 50-90% of dialysis patients, and xerosis was reported in 50-75%. Other conditions included acquired perforating dermatosis, calciphylaxis, and half-and-half nails. The review highlighted that recent advances in treatment had altered the frequency and types of skin disorders observed in ESRD patients. The pathogenesis of these conditions remained speculative, involving factors like elevated fibronectin levels and defects in vitamin metabolism. The document also discussed the need for careful evaluation to distinguish between similar conditions, such as porphyria cutanea tarda and pseudoporphyria.