Publication:

Pattern of skin disorders in hilly district of Pauri Garhwal with their dermoscopic findings: an epidemiological study

Background The pattern of skin disorders is largely affected by climate, geography, occupation, socio-economic status, nutrition, genetics and habits of the community. Nowadays, dermoscope is being increasingly used as a non-invasive aid in diagnosis of various skin disorders. Objective of the study was to study the etiology, distribution and dermoscopic findings of various skin disorders in 5 remote villages of hilly district of Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand over a period of 1 month (April 2021).

Methods The study was conducted as a weekly OPD in 5 villages of Hilly district of Pauri over a period of 1 month with free consultation and medications. Details of patients, their complaints, clinical diagnosis and dermoscopic findings were recorded.

Results Overall, allergic/irritant dermatitis were found to be most common (30%) followed by infective disorders (27.25%), photodermatitis (20.2%), inflammatory disorders (4.3%), miscellaneous disorders (LSC, stasis dermatitis, pityriasis rosea, others) up to 9.5% and viral exanthematous rash possibly COVID-19 associated in 8.62% cases. Most common dermoscopic finding of allergic/irritant dermatitis were red dots (92%), in photodermatitis were brown dots (82.09%) and viral exanthem was diffuse erythema (100%).

Conclusions Hilly areas contribute to a large burden of dermatological disorders which needs to be catered too. With the help of this knowledge, we can plan appropriate range of health services to meet the patient’s needs in hilly regions.