Nutritional dermatoses in the hospitalized patient.

Cutaneous disease may be the first manifestation of an underlying nutritional deficiency, highlighting the importance of early recognition by dermatologists. Undernutrition occurs when there is an imbalance between nutrient intake and metabolic demand. Many hospitalized patients are in catabolic states due to chronic illness, infection, malabsorption, or medication. These patients are at an increased risk for undernutrition and therefore associated cutaneous disease. This review details the risk factors for nutritional deficiency, illustrates the presentations of cutaneous disease, reviews diagnostic workups, and provides suggestions for supplementation in the undernourished patient.