Dermatology consultations in patients with hematological and solid organ malignancies

Abstract

Aims: Patients with hematological or solid organ malignancies are susceptible to various skin disorders. This study described the cutaneous problems related to the underlying diseases or their management in hematology and oncology inpatients. Methods: In this retrospective study with a cross-sectional analysis, we examined the medical records of inpatients with hematologic or solid organ malignancy who consulted the dermatology department from January 2018 through March 2021. Sociodemographic characteristics, medical history and comorbidities, cancer type, and dermatological findings and diagnoses were noted. Patients who have consulted the outpatient clinic and those with inadequate medical records were excluded. Results: The study included 200 patients (age, mean±standard deviation, minimum-maximum: 51.4±18.2, 18-89 years;female 51%). Most of the consultations were from the internal medicine clinic (26.4%), followed by the hematology and oncology clinics (12.5%). A quarter of the patients had acute myeloid leukemia, the most frequent disease among hematological malignancies. Breast cancer (7%) and testis cancer (7%) were the most common solid organ malignancies. The most common dermatological diagnoses were cutaneous infections (33.5%) and drug reactions (13.5%). Skin biopsies were performed in 19.5% (n=39) of the patients. The evaluation of the patient by a dermatologist for a cutaneous symptom or finding led to modifications of disease management in 67 patients (33.7%). Conclusions: Dermatology consultations are frequently required in hematological or solid organ malignancies. A successful evaluation of skin manifestations in these patients may improve the quality of care in this vulnerable population.