Dermatologic Manifestations of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), known for its gastrointestinal malabsorption issues, can give rise to perplexing skin complications, such as periorificial granulomas or erythema nodosum. Bridget E. Shields, MD, delved into the fascinating connection between conditions like IBD and their impact on the skin in her Fall Dermatology Week 2023 session, “Skin Complications of Gastrointestinal Diseases.”

Dr Shields is an assistant professor in the department of dermatology at the University of Wisconsin in Madison, WI. She spoke about the intricate relationship between gastrointestinal disorders and dermatologic manifestations. The learning objectives of her presentation included empowering health care professionals to recognize IBD-associated skin conditions, outlining an effective approach to diagnose and manage skin diseases linked to IBD, and highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in caring for patients with these cutaneous conditions. Through this, she hoped to underscore the pivotal role dermatologists play in this collaborative effort.

“Patients with IBD can develop cutaneous manifestation due to the disease itself, secondary disease-associated inflammation, or IBD treatment,” Dr Shields noted as a key takeaway. “Cutaneous disease disproportionately affects young women with severe IBD.”

“Early recognition of skin disease can prevent morbidity,” she concluded. “Multidisciplinary care is crucial to successful management.”

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Reference
Shields B. Skin complications of gastrointestinal diseases. Presented at: Dermatology Week; September 20–23, 2023; Virtual.