Prevalence and Pattern of Skin Disorders among Patients Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital in Bangladesh.
Description
Background: Skin diseases are a significant public health concern worldwide and represent one of the most frequent reasons for outpatient visits. Their prevalence varies according to geographic, environmental, and socioeconomic factors. Objective: To determine the prevalence and pattern of dermatological disorders among patients attending a tertiary care hospital. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 659 patients presenting with dermatological conditions at a tertiary care hospital. Clinical diagnoses were established through patient history and dermatological examination. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and presented as frequencies and percentages. Results: Among the 659 patients included in the study, 125 (18.97%) were male, and 534 (81.03%) were female. The most common skin disorder was fungal infection affecting 320 (48.55%) patients, followed by scabies in 113 (17.14%) and itching/urticaria in 96 (14.57%). Dermatitis was observed in 56 (8.49%) patients, and acne in 33 (5.0%). Other conditions included seborrheic dermatitis (2.7%), xerosis (2.27%), and melasma (2.12%). Pregnancy-related dermatoses such as prurigo gravidarum (1.21%) and polymorphic eruption of pregnancy (PUPP) (1.06%) were observed exclusively among females. Less common conditions included vitiligo, psoriasis, alopecia, and diabetic bullae. Conclusion: Infectious dermatoses, particularly fungal infections and scabies, were the most prevalent skin conditions in this study. Improved hygiene practices, early diagnosis, and adequate dermatological services are essential to reduce the burden of skin diseases.