Skin Problems in Ostomy Patients: A Case-control Study of Risk Factors

Abstract

Skin complications are frequent in ostomy patients and a number of risk factors have been suggested. The data on risk factors have, however, been documented mainly in single-centre studies and the actual importance of the suggested risk factors should therefore be verified in a group of ostomy patients broadly selected from the general population. All patients with permanent ostomies living in Roskilde County, Denmark, were invited to participate in the study. A total of 338 responded and 199 agreed to participate. Forty-five percent of all patients presented a skin problem. Less than half (43%) of patients with a skin problem were aware of the skin problems, and less than 1 in 5 (16%) had sought treatment for their skin problem. Ileostomies, ostomies with leakage and ostomies in patients with body mass index > 30 were associated with skin problems. In conclusion, ileostomy, leakage and obesity predisposed patients to peristomal skin problems. Other suggested risk factors appear to be weak or insignificant. Patients under-report the presence of peristomal skin problems and therefore it is suggested that they need to be assessed by a professional on a routine basis in order to avoid or better manage peristomal skin complications.

A study of long-term complications associated with enteral ostomy and their contributory factors

“…This observation is in agreement with consensus throughout the literature [20]. It is suggested that it is common because small intestinal output is frequent and more irritant due to its caustic nature [21].…”

“…It is suggested that it is common because small intestinal output is frequent and more irritant due to its caustic nature [21]. Even though our study showed an association in males, a similar retrospective study on skin problems of ostomy did not show an association between skin excoriation and gender [20]. …”

Recommendations for the improvement of bladder cancer quality of care in Canada: A consensus document reviewed and endorsed by Bladder Cancer Canada (BCC), Canadian Urologic Oncology Group (CUOG), and Canadian Urological Association (CUA), December 2015

“…250,253,254 Postoperative followup, with home care if desired/required, is crucial for ostomy patients. Social isolation affects some adults with an ostomy and is associated with decreased levels of overall satisfaction and emotional support.…”

An electronic approach to minimising moisture-associated skin damage in ostomy patients

“…The influence of demographic and clinical factors on MASD has been investigated and it has been found that patients with an ileostomy were significantly more likely to experience peristomal MASD than those with a colostomy [17][18][19]. It is widely recognised that the high moisture content (80-85%) and the presence of digestive enzymes in ileostomy effluent are (two) key factors that can trigger the onset of MASD [1][2][3][4][5], but it is important to note that changes in skin pH brought about by prolonged contact with moisture originating from the stoma will also have a significant role [20,21].…”