Oscar R. Colegio - Skin Diseases in the Immunosuppressed

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Prior to my lung transplant which was performed 5 years ago, I never had abnormal skin growths or even the hint of potentially dangerous skin cancer forming. Within 6 months of my new daily routine of antirejection medications, I had to find a dermatologist with experience with transplants, to monitor the new me and the frequent basal cell, squamous cell growths on various parts of my body. Now a 6-month scheduled body scan with my dermatologist offers protection and comfort.

JM, lung transplant recipient

As a child suffering from head to toe skin infections of various types without a concrete diagnosis, treatments varied and at best were trial and error. Entering young adulthood with medical advancements, clinical trials, and studies, a diagnosis of the underlining cause of primary immunodeficiency was determined. At last a treatment plan targeting those specific needs was put in place, and as a result the skin infections both viral and bacterial began to improve. Today, as a senior on maintenance IVIG therapy and antibiotics along with preventative care visits and an amazing healthcare team, my skin problems have diminished significantly.

MG, chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis

After a successful career as a communications engineer and consultant, I looked forward to retirement at a relatively young age. However, I soon developed end-stage kidney failure due to IgA nephropathy. I received a transplanted kidney from my wife, but the procedure was beset by complications and problems with the initial immunosuppressant medication. I switched my care to Yale New Haven Hospital and quickly began to do quite well with sirolimus as my immunosuppressant. Over time, I developed bumps in the skin on my face. Not having ideal skin to begin with, these were at first not very noticeable, but when they became obvious, I sought help from a Yale dermatologist. The treatments involved a little stinging as liquid nitrogen is applied and some minor and temporary scabbing. However, the change in my facial appearance has been dramatic and the basis for numerous complementary comments from friends and family. This feedback helped me realize how great an improvement my face underwent with the cryotherapy treatments. While other health issues remain for me, my outlook, confidence, and general well-being have vastly improved.

RW, kidney transplant recipient