Introduction and Aim Results from an epidemiological cross-sectional study published recently demonstrated that the frequency of peristomal skin disorders was 45% among a community population of individuals with a permanent stoma living in Denmark (Herlufsen P et al 2006). The present investigation looks into which single factors are most important to the development of peristomal skin disorder. Method The study consisted of two consecutive phases. In the first phase, an anonymous questionnaire was used to collect data. In the second phase, individuals who consented were included in a cross-sectional study. From the 630 questionnaires sent out, 338 replies were received and 202 individuals (101 men and 101 women) agreed to participate in the cross-sectional study. Three stoma care nurses (SCN's), two dermatologists and a resident conducted the study. Data were collected from September 2003 to September 2004 via a clinical examination of the peristomal skin, a questionnaire completed by the participant prior to the clinical examination and a registration form completed by the SCN in relation to the clinical examination. Results from the cross-sectional study are reported here. Results Results clarifying the cause of the peristomal skin disorders seen in the epidemiological study (Herlufsen P et al 2006) will be presented. Discussion Many of the peristomal skin disorders originate in the area just around the stoma. In the epidemiological study (Herlufsen P et al 2006), the four main diagnoses (faeces-induced erosion, maceration, erythema and contact dermatitis) could all be related to contact with stoma effluent and accounted for 77% of all the diagnoses. In addition, there was a significant relation between skin disorders and self-reported leakages, suggesting that the main reason for developing a skin disorder is stoma effluent coming into contact with the peristomal skin.

This research was funded by Coloplast A/S.