Despite its severity not much work has been done to explore the barrier function in patients with erythroderma. This study compares TEWL between skin of healthy subjects and erythrodermic patients of various aetiologies and at different sites. We also assess TEWL between patients with acute and chronic erythroderma.
Erythroderma can be life-threatening, primarily because of its metabolic burden and complications. It is mandatory to establish its etiopathology in order to facilitate precise and definitive management. This disorder may be the morphologic presentation of a variety of cutaneous and systemic diseases. Detailed history and thorough work-up is therefore essential. Management of erythroderma involves multi-disciplines with progress monitoring especially on signs and symptoms suggestive of acute skin failure induced complications. Early diagnosis and referral of erythroderma to centres with dermatological services is crucial and will directly affect the outcome of the patients.