Nutritional Dermatoses in the Hospitalized Patient

The document "Nutritional Dermatoses in the Hospitalized Patient" from June 2020 discussed the link between undernutrition and cutaneous disease. It highlighted that undernutrition, which can result from macronutrient or micronutrient deficiencies, was a common yet underrecognized issue in hospitalized patients, with a prevalence of 20% to 50% worldwide. The review emphasized the importance of early recognition of nutritional deficiencies by dermatologists, as these deficiencies could lead to cutaneous disease. It also detailed the risk factors for nutritional deficiency, the presentations of cutaneous disease, diagnostic workups, and suggestions for supplementation in undernourished patients. The document also discussed specific conditions such as Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM) and zinc deficiency, their symptoms, and treatment methods. For instance, patients with PEM could exhibit dry, wrinkled, loose skin due to subcutaneous fat loss, and alopecia of the scalp. Treatment involved fluid resuscitation, correction of electrolyte imbalances, and nutritional replacement.