Skin dermatoses in the returning traveller: a practical guide

Abstract

Abstract Skin problems are common in returning travellers, despite the fact that vaccination, insect repellent techniques, adequate clothing and footwear are all ways to prevent skin disease. When travelling to unusual areas, the traveller can still expect to pick up diseases that are common across the world, such as lice, scabies, and staphylococcal or streptococcal infections. What can differ are the different arthropods and the diseases they can spread. Given the plethora of dermatoses in returning travellers, a methodological approach is necessary. We attempted such an approach by creating a practical guide that includes a diagnostic flowchart alongside a world map presenting common skin problems by continent. Additional information regarding possible investigations, along with tables presenting common infectious skin diseases and their corresponding presentations, is also included in our study. Our aim is to help clinicians approach skin dermatosis in patients returning from holidays, acknowledging the diagnostic difficulties that this might entail.