Dermatological Problems of Asylum Seekers Arriving on Boats: A Case Report from Australia and a Brief Review

In 2014, a case report from Australia described the dermatological challenges faced by a 42-year-old female Somali asylum seeker who developed irritant contact dermatitis and secondary bacterial infection after exposure to seawater, kerosene, and diesel. Initially suspected to have sepsis from a staphylococcal infection, the correct diagnosis underscored the importance of a systematic approach to skin assessments in asylum seekers. The report provided a template for skin assessment and emphasized considering a range of factors, including infections, infestations, and environmental and social conditions. The patient improved significantly after conservative treatment and a 2-week hospital stay. The document also reviewed potential skin conditions in asylum seekers and stressed the growing importance of recognizing these issues in developed countries due to increasing numbers of refugees and immigrants. It highlighted the need for medical professionals to be aware of diagnostic challenges in treating this population.