Vol 61, No 1 (2010)
Original article
Published online: 2010-05-21
Skin disorders at sea
IMH 2010;61(1):9-12.
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to characterize the types of skin disorders occurring at sea requiring acute
treatment. The case logs of a tele-medicine service for US flagged ships at sea were reviewed from March 1,
2006 until March 1, 2009. Of 1844 total cases, 10% (n = 183) were for skin disorders. Sixty-eight percent
(n = 125) were infections, 14% (n = 25) were inflammatory, 7% (n = 13) were environmental, and 11% (n = 20)
were non-specific rashes. Cutaneous abscesses and cellulitis (n = 84) were the most common acute skin
disorders encountered. In some cases (n = 81), still digital photographs aided in the diagnosis.
Int Marit Health 2010; 61, 1: 9-12
Int Marit Health 2010; 61, 1: 9-12
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