Background: Pediatric dermatoses constitute a significant proportion of outpatient visits and vary widely depending on geographic, environmental, and socioeconomic factors. Understanding their clinical and epidemiological patterns is essential for effective management. Objectives: To study the clinical profile and epidemiological patterns of pediatric dermatoses in a tertiary care hospital. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 children aged 0–14 years attending the dermatology outpatient department. Detailed history, clinical examination, and relevant investigations were performed. Dermatoses were classified into infectious and non-infectious categories. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The majority of patients belonged to the 5–10 years age group (38%). Males constituted 56% of cases. Infectious dermatoses were the most common (48%), followed by eczematous disorders (18%), infestations (12%), and papulosquamous disorders (8%). Bacterial infections (22%) were the most frequent, followed by fungal (15%) and viral infections (11%). Poor hygiene, overcrowding, and low socioeconomic status were significantly associated with infectious dermatoses. Conclusion: Infectious dermatoses remain the predominant pediatric skin disorders in developing regions. Public health measures focusing on hygiene and early diagnosis are essential to reduce disease burden.
Skin diseases are among the most common health problems in children, accounting for a substantial proportion of pediatric outpatient visits. The pattern of pediatric dermatoses differs from that of adults due to variations in anatomy, immunity, and environmental exposure.
The prevalence of pediatric dermatoses varies globally, ranging from approximately 9% to 35% in different regions, influenced by socioeconomic and environmental conditions . In developing countries, infectious dermatoses are more common due to factors such as overcrowding, poor hygiene, and malnutrition.
Several studies have reported that infections and infestations constitute the majority of pediatric dermatoses, followed by eczematous and hypersensitivity disorders . Understanding the epidemiological trends is crucial for planning preventive and therapeutic strategies.
This study aims to evaluate the clinical profile and epidemiological patterns of pediatric dermatoses in a tertiary care hospital.
Study Design and Setting A hospital-based cross-sectional study conducted in the Department of Dermatology of a tertiary care teaching hospital. Study Duration 12 months. Study Population Children aged 0–14 years presenting with skin disorders. Sample Size 250 pediatric patients. Inclusion Criteria • Children aged 0–14 years • Patients with dermatological complaints • Consent from parents/guardians Exclusion Criteria • Critically ill patients • Incomplete clinical data Data Collection • Demographic details (age, gender, socioeconomic status) • Clinical history and examination • Relevant investigations (KOH mount, Gram stain, biopsy where needed) Classification Dermatoses were classified into: • Infectious (bacterial, viral, fungal, parasitic) • Non-infectious (eczema, papulosquamous, pigmentary, etc.) Statistical Analysis Data were analyzed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics were used.
Demographic Profile
Out of 250 children, the majority (38%) were in the 5–10 years age group, followed by 0–5 years (34%) and 10–14 years (28%). Males constituted 56% while females accounted for 44%, showing a slight male predominance.
Pattern of Dermatoses
Infectious dermatoses were the most common, accounting for 48% of cases. Among non-infectious conditions, eczematous disorders were most frequent (18%), followed by infestations (12%), papulosquamous disorders (8%), and pigmentary disorders (6%).
These findings are consistent with previous studies showing infections as the predominant group in pediatric populations .
Types of Infections
Among infectious dermatoses:
Pyoderma and impetigo were the most common bacterial infections, while dermatophytosis was the most common fungal infection.
Associated Risk Factors
Poor hygiene, overcrowding, and low socioeconomic status were observed in a majority of children with infectious dermatoses. These factors significantly contributed to increased prevalence of infections.
Age-wise Distribution
Infectious dermatoses were more common in younger children, whereas acne and papulosquamous disorders were more prevalent in adolescents.
Pediatric dermatoses show a diverse clinical spectrum with infectious conditions being the most prevalent. Socioeconomic and environmental factors play a crucial role in disease distribution. Strengthening public health measures and awareness programs can significantly reduce disease burden. Limitations • Single-center study • Lack of long-term follow-up • Limited microbiological confirmation Recommendations • Improve hygiene and sanitation • Early diagnosis and treatment • Health education for parents Regular school health screening
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