Comparative study of pulmonary function test and dermatoglyphics in eczem a patients

Abstract

Introduction: Eczema is a pattern of inflammatory responses of the skin, characterized by spongiosis with varying degrees of acanthosis and a superficial perivascular lymphocytic infiltrate. Eczema results from a complex interaction between genetic susceptibility and environmental risk factors. Pulmonary function tests are valuable investigations in the management of patients with respiratory symptoms in eczema, as increased severity of respiratory illnesses, RSV wheezing and early allergic sensitization were significant risk factors for eczema disease. Objectives: The objectives of the present study was to identify patterns of dermal ridges on finger tips and palms in eczema patients and pulmonary function tests to initiate preventive measures of respiratory symptoms in eczema in early detection program and to focus the predictive strength of specific dermatoglyphic patterns in eczema patients. Materials and Methods: The present study was carried out on 50 eczema patients in JJM Medical College, Davangere which was compared with 50 normal apparently healthy individuals. Data analysis was done. Chi square test was used to compare the different groups. WRIGHTS Peak flow meter which is a portable device for measuring ventilator functions. Comparisons were performed using students t-test for 2 group comparisons Results: In the present study we found reduced PEFR in eczema patients and decrease in frequency of total arches and whorls in eczema patients were observed. There are significant differences in eczema patients in various dermatoglyphics features when compared to normal. Hence it is possible to identify the risk population with the help of dermatoglyphics and suggest them to take periodic monitoring of pulmonary function test. Keywords: Pulmonary function test, Dermatoglyphics, Eczema, Palm prints.