Skin disorders associated with bilateral lower extremity amputation.

ABSTRACT

We conducted this study to determine the types and frequency of skin problems among war related bilateral lower limb amputees. Three hundred and thirty five cases were examined for dermatologic problems in about 20 years (20 +/- 3.89) after bilateral lower extremity amputation. The subjects were injured during the Iraq-Iran war. Descriptive statistics were used. At least one skin problem was found in 189 (56.4%) of the amputees. Three hundred and nineteen skin problems were diagnosed in 189 amputees. The most common skin problems were contact dermatitis 39.5% (n=126), calluses 26.6% (n=85), folliculitis 14.42% (n=46) and ulcers 7.2% (n=23). The skin problems were more frequently seen in subjects with bilateral below the knee amputation. Skin problems were highly incident in our amputees. The substantial multidisciplinary rehabilitation team included a dermatologist, orthopedic surgeon, prosthetist and physical therapist is recommended to prevent and diagnose these problems on time.