Clinical pattern of cutaneous infections and infestations in pediatric age

Abstract

Introduction: Skin disorders are major health problem in the pediatric age group and are associated with significant morbidity. The pattern of pediatric dermatoses has varied in different studies. The majority of dermatoses belonged to infection and infestation group followed by eczematous and hypersensitivity groups. Objective: To study the clinical pattern of infection and infestation in pediatric age group. Materials and Methods: All children 0–12 year of either sex, attending Dermatology Outpatient Department between January 2014 and July 2014 are recruited in this study. A detailed history, complete dermatological examination, along with routine investigations wherever required are recorded in predesigned proforma. Results: The study comprised of 120 patients. A total of 127 cases of infection and infestation were noted. Seven patients were having both. Total of 69.1% infections and 36.7% infestations were noted. Among the various infections and infestations, the most common were bacterial infection 37.5%, fungal infection 15% and viral infection 16.7% and scabies 29.2%, pediculosis 9%. Conclusion: The dermatoses such as infections and infestations in the pediatric age group are common including rural and urban areas.