Peeling Paint Dermatosis in a Leukemia Patient

A 36-year-old woman with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia developed kwashiorkor, characterized by "peeling paint" dermatosis, due to severe protein malnutrition from a low-protein diet and complications from chemotherapy. Her condition included hypoalbuminemia, multiple vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and neutropenic enterocolitis. Initial treatment with oral intake and dronabinol was insufficient, leading to the initiation of total parenteral nutrition, which resolved her skin symptoms. This case highlighted the importance of recognizing and treating severe protein malnutrition in patients with chronic diseases and prolonged hospitalizations to prevent further morbidity or mortality.