A clinical evaluation of skin disorders of lower limb amputation sites.

Abstract

Amputee patients commonly experience skin problems that may result in social, mental, and economic difficulties. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence of dermatological disorders and identify potential causes and symptomatic patterns among a population of lower limb amputees. Seventy lower limb amputees were enrolled. Complete examinations were performed by a dermatologist, who diagnosed and documented any skin disorders observed and recorded demographic characteristics of each patient. Mycological and bacteriological swabs were collected from the skin at the amputation site for culture analysis. In patients with suspected disease, patch tests were performed. Of the 70 patients, 58 (82.9%) were male and 12 (17.1%) female. Vascular insufficiency due to diabetes (n = 38, 54.3%) and trauma (n = 16, 22.9%) were the most common reasons for amputation. Skin problems were observed in 49 (70%) cases, and positive allergen reactions occurred in 16 (45.7%) of the 35 contact dermatitis cases. Fungal infection occurred in two patients and bacterial infection in seven. Seventy percent of the lower limb amputee patients in this cohort exhibited skin problems. This high percentage indicates that skin problems may reduce patients' quality of life. A multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of patients who have undergone amputation and early recognition and treatment of symptoms are therefore of critical importance.