Tobacco use and skin disease

Background. The primary objective of this review is to evaluate the mucocutaneous manifestations of tobacco use. Methods. Computerized literature searches were conducted for English language articles related to skin/mucous membrane disease and use of tobacco. The primary criterion for assessing data quality and validity was the demonstration of a causal relationship between tobacco use and skin/mucous membrane disease. Results, This review of the literature shows that a number of disorders and diseases of the skin and mucous membranes are related to tobacco use. Conclusions, Since millions of persons use tobacco despite its well publicized relationship to increased mortality, knowledge of the mucocutaneous morbidity associated with tobacco use may help physicians in counseling their patients.