Source: Pages 508-510 in S. Chatwood, P. Orr and Tiina Ikaheimo, eds. Proceedings of the 14th International Congress on Circumpolar Health, Yellowknife, Canada, July 11-16, 2009. Securing the IPY Legacy: from Research to Action. International Journal of Circumpolar Health 2010; 69 (Suppl 7).

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Author Affiliation: Emeritus Professor Dermatology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada

Source: Pages 508-510 in S. Chatwood, P. Orr and Tiina Ikaheimo, eds. Proceedings of the 14th International Congress on Circumpolar Health, Yellowknife, Canada, July 11-16, 2009. Securing the IPY Legacy: from Research to Action. International Journal of Circumpolar Health 2010; 69 (Suppl 7).

Abstract: Objectives: To find out what a dermatology consultant saw and did in a northern setting. Study design and methods: The paper includes a summary of the clinical experience related to treating skin diseases over 11 years that involved 22 week-long visits to Baffin Island. Results: A total of 2, 240 visits occurred and included numerous store and forward consultations. Atopic dermatitis was by far the most common diagnosis; unusual features such as severity, persistence, different clinical patterns and photosensitivity reactions were found. Also HTLV-1 lymphoma and the classic Kaposi's hemorrhagic sarcoma were seen that are otherwise unusual diseases in the Arctic. Training efforts were made, including seminars, meetings and encouragement in the use of skin punch biopsies. Conclusions: A dermatology consultation can be a useful addition to the care of patients in northern climates .

pg508.pdf