ENVIRONMENTAL SKIN disorders usually are associated with ambient changes (heat, humidity, intensity of ultraviolet [UV] solar rays) and new environments (ski slopes, beaches, jungles/rainforests, and areas with exotic animals unfamiliar to patients). Many of these new surroundings cause unique dermatologic reactions familiar to natives who understand the need for avoidance but unfamiliar to others who must seek dermatologic care.

PROPER AND EARLY MANAGEMENT

Proper and early management of skin disorders due to environmental factors might avert the ruin of a long anticipated trip or vacation. In some instances, the environmental exposure occurs at home before departure and then is manifested during travel to – or at – the destination. Such environmental exposures from contact allergens, toxins, and infections or infestations can be delayed. As a result, clinical manifestations are delayed and may not appear until several days after the return home. Likewise, the necessary therapy may be required in that wide window – the so-called incubation period. The challenge of many of the environmentally associated emergencies is to initiate therapy early, to achieve the best possible outcome, and, in some infectious complications, to be able to institute the now-delayed therapy to avoid great increases in morbidity and mortality.