Epidemiology of dermatoses in children and adolescents in Punjab, India

Objective: The present study was conducted with the aim to find out the incidence and pattern of presentation of various pediatric dermatoses in children and adolescents in Punjab, India. Patients and methods: 1387 children and adolescents (831 boys and 556 girls) in the age group of 6-15 years with single dermatological disorders were selected from Dermatology and Venereology and Pediatrics Outpatient Departments of Sri Guru Ram Das Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Amritsar (Punjab), India. They were divided into 2 groups depending upon their age: Group A: Children (6-10 years) and Group B: Adolescents (11-15 years). Results: Infections and infestations were the most common dermatoses (30.8%) followed by dermatitis (27.3%), acne (12.5%), pigmentary disorders (6.9%), urticaria/angioedema (5.0%), hair disorders (2.2%), drug reaction (1.5%), sweat gland disorders (1.4%), and miscellaneous group (4.7%). Amongst infections and infestations, the most common were scabies (11.9%), fungal infections (6.9%), and bacterial infections (5.6%). Conclusions: The findings of the present study highlight the need to diagnose pediatric dermatoses at early stages by training general practitioners and pediatricians and by increasing awareness in the public regarding health and hygiene of children.