European Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine

Abstract: Introduction: The term Adolescence was derived from the Latin term adolescere, which means “to grow up’’. It is the transition phase from childhood to adulthood. Adolescence is a time of immense biological, psychological and social changes. The effects of these changes on skin are profound. Various dermatoses can affect their current and future adult health. An essential aspect of this particular age is the emerging sexuality and intimacy, which may be influenced dramatically by body image, self-esteem as well as peers. Dermatoses represent a significant public health burden, particularly in developing countries. Only a few studies were documented regarding the effect of skin diseases on health-related quality of life that too, in adults. Lack of research on adolescent population has raised interest in carrying out the present study. Material and Methods: This is a prospective and Hospital based cross sectional study conducted in the Department of Dermatology, Venerology and leprosy in Narayana Medical College Hospital, Nellore from January 2017 to December 2017. All consenting patients aged between 10 and 19 years with clinical evidence of skin disease were included. A detailed history of patient’s disease was taken and after getting an informed consent, a meticulous general and mucocutaneous examination was done. Any predisposing factors like drug intake, topical application of cosmetics and medicines, etc. were noted. Investigations like KOH mount, Tzanck smear, gram’ stain, Wood’s lamp examination, biopsy was done as and when needed. Results: In this study, there were a total no. of 500 patients in the adolescent age group i.e., 10-19 years out of which 255 (51%) were males and 245 (49%) were females. The incidence of various dermatoses in males in decreasing order of incidence is infections (11.4%), acne (9.2%), infestations eczematous lesions – pigmentoses each (4.2%) followed by hair disorders (3.6%), Papulosquamous (2.8%). The incidence of various dermatoses in females in decreasing order of incidence is infections (11.6%), acne (10.2%), infestations (5%), eczematous lesions (4.8%), pigmentoses (3%) followed by hair disorders (3%), Papulosquamous (1.4%) Among the infections, Fungal infections were most common (11.4%), followed by Infestations (9.2%), viral (6. %), and bacterial (3.8%). Conclusion: In our study, infections were the most common dermatoses, as seen in the previous studies done on adolescents. Acne vulgaris was the most common individual dermatoses owing to the hormonal changes with an impact on adolescent's quality of life. Lichen planus was common among all the papulosquamous disorders. Urticaria, alopecia areata, keloids, and insect bite reactions were the other commonly occurring dermatoses.