Dermatologic care of the transgender patient

Abstract

Literature is limited regarding the medical and cosmetic dermatologic issues pertinent to transgender patients and the reasons why transgender individuals seek care from dermatologists. Clinical management of this population has historically been limited to mental health providers, endocrinologists, and select surgeons with expertise in sex reassignment surgery. The impact of hormonal therapy on transgender skin has been well documented in endocrinology journals, but is underrepresented in dermatology literature. Hormonal therapy leads to drastic skin alterations, impacting sebum production, hair growth, and acne, all of which may become a dermatologic concern for the transgender patient. Dermatologists may also be consulted regarding issues such as permanent hair removal, androgenic alopecia, or scar revision following breast reduction surgery or genital reassignment surgery. The purpose of this review is to provide relevant information for use by all dermatology providers who care for transgender patients or patients undergoing transition.