Clinical aspects of palmoplantar dermatoses in patients attending tertiary health care centre

Abstract

Background: Dermatoses affecting palms and soles are among the most difficult of all dermatological therapeutic problems. Apart from diagnostic difficulties, few palmoplantar dermatoses cause great discomfort and disability and may also affect a person's livelihood. To evaluate demographic aspects like age and gender wise distribution and clinical profile of patients suffering from palmoplantar dermatoses.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between August 2018 to July 2019 in the Department of Dermatology, venereology and leprosy in tertiary care centre. Total 200 cases attending the department of dermatology primarily with complaints pertaining to palms and soles with or without body part involvement in patients of age group between 5-70 yrs. and both sexes were enrolled in the study. Investigations such as direct microscopic examination of scrapings, wet mount with potassium hydroxide, Wood’s lamp examination, patch testing and sample for biopsy was taken. After taking consent a detailed history and clinical examination pertaining to the aim of the study was recorded and analysed.

Results: A total of 200 patients were enrolled, among which 63% were males and 37% were females showing male predominance. The most common age group affected was 21-40 years. The most common chief complaint was itching (41.5%). Palmoplantar psoriasis was the most common dermatosis with 23.5% cases.

Conclusions: Palmoplantar dermatoses are frequently encountered in the dermatologic field. Early recognition of clinical symptoms and signs aids in diagnostic investigations and helps in appropriate and effective management of illness to improve the quality of life.