Table II.
Common risk factors and skin diseases observed in refugees∗
| Risk factor | Associated dermatologic conditions or manifestations |
|---|---|
| Environmental exposure | Irritant dermatitis (sea water and sun) Chemical burns Scald burns Frostbite Miliaria Sunburns Infections from water exposure (Vibrio, Mycobacterium marinum, and Aeromonas) |
| Migration |
Bacterial cellulitis Deep abscesses Tissue necrosis Patera foot Friction blisters (can cause plantar callouses, keratoderma, and infected wounds if ruptured) |
| Food insecurity/malnutrition | Generalized desquamation Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation Alopecia Scurvy (hyperkeratosis and corkscrew hair) Pellagra (photosensitive rash) |
| Overcrowding |
Lice and scabies (can be secondarily infected with Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes) Impetigo Neglected tropical diseases (cutaneous leishmaniasis, schistosomiasis, and strongyloidiasis) Fungal infections |
| Lack of medical care |
Communicable diseases that are preventable with vaccines (measles and varicella) Leprosy Exacerbation of previously well-controlled non-communicable diseases (atopic dermatitis and psoriasis) |
| Violence | Chemical burns Contusions Electric shock injuries |