The Spectrum of Pediatric Skin Diseases: A Prospective Study in Sudan

Abstract

Background: In line with the World Health Organization's (WHO) campaign to improve community dermatology services, research on the spectrum of pediatric skin diseases is crucial for both patients and policymakers. Identifying the spectrum of pediatric skin conditions among children visiting the Khartoum Dermatological Hospital's outpatient dermatology clinic was the goal of this study. Methods: Over six months, a prospective cross-sectional study including children (0–18 years old) was undertaken. Once the pertinent medical history and examinations were gathered, dermatologists made the diagnosis. Skin conditions were divided into several categories. The analysis of the data was done with the SPSS version 23. Results: A total of 320 children, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.1:1, were enrolled. Ten categories with 38 different skin diseases were established after diagnosis. Infections in 152 (47.5%), eczematous disorders in 89 (27.8%), and appendageal disorders in 19 (5.93%) children were the most prevalent conditions by group. Impetigo (37.5%), scabies (10.9%), and seborrheic dermatitis (10.6%) were the most frequently seen diseases. These illnesses most commonly afflicted the areas of the limbs (30%), face (20%), and scalp (18.7%). Papules in 148 (46%) and scales in 74 (23%) children were the most prevalent primary and secondary efflorescence, respectively. A clinical diagnosis was made in the majority (266 [83.1%]) of the cases. Conclusion: The most frequently observed group was infection. This demonstrates how crucial it is to maintain good personal and family hygiene, minimize overcrowded spaces, and promoting public health.