Acquired Perforating Dermatosis and Dermatology Life Quality Index in Patients Receiving hemodialysis.

Introduction: Acquired perforating dermatosis (APD) is a frequent disorder in hemodialysis patients and the effect on the quality of life is poorly described. We investigated the prevalence of APD in hemodialysis patients, measured and compared APD-associated quality of life.

Methods: We developed a prospective, observational, and descriptive study. We invited patients over the age of 18 in hemodialysis. Data was obtained from their electronic file and a dermatological examination was performed. The Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) was applied. Descriptive analysis of demographic variables, clinical features, and dermoscopy findings, as well as comparison of DLQI scores, was made.

Results: The sample consisted of 46 patients, with a prevalence of APD of 11%. Patients with APD were leaner and younger compared to patients without APD. The time on hemodialysis was longer in patients with APD compared to those without APD, with a median of 90 versus 32 months (p = 0.015). The impact on quality of life was greater in patients with APD compared to those without APD, with some effect in all patients with APD and 33% in patients without APD (p = 0.001). Patients with APD had more frequent pruritus compared to those without APD (p = 0.007).

Conclusions: Age, time on hemodialysis and BMI are associated with the presence of APD. Patients with APD had a higher prevalence of pruritus and a greater impact on quality of life in dermatology compared to patients without APD.