Study of paediatric skin lesions in a tertiary care hospital

Abstract

Background: Children below 14 years of age are vulnerable to many skin diseases mainly due to malnutrition, poor hygiene, less medical care provision, low socio-economic status, etc. The incidence and the spectrum of paediatric dermatological diseases vary from one part of the world to another depending on various factors. This study was aimed to study skin problems in children below 14 years age. Material and Methods: This was a cross-sectional, observational study done with children of age below 14 years attended skin outpatient department (OPD) with skin problems. Results: During study period 310 patients were included in the study of which 178 (57.26%) were male and 132 (42.74%) were female. The ratio of male: female was 1.34:1 in our study. Infectious skin lesions were seen in 163 (52.5%) children, while non-infectious skin lesions were seen in 157 (50.6 %) children. Conclusion: Infections and infestations are commonly noted in our paediatric population. Application of preventable measures by community, early diagnosis and proper counseling by pediatrician or dermatologist is needed to prevent further morbidity of skin lesions.