RESUMEN
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Dermatology consultation occurs mainly in the outpatient setting. The reasons for inpatient dermatologic consultation by other specialties in a hospital, its frequency and its impact on health care are largely unrecorded. METHODS: We retrospectively studied the records of 971 hospitalized patients or patients being evaluated in emergency services for which a dermatologist's consultation was requested over a 5-year period in a medium sized military hospital. The demographic details, specialties requiring consultation, provisional diagnosis and dermatological investigations done were tabulated. RESULTS: Dermatologic consultation changed the dermatologic diagnosis and treatment in more than 2/3rd of the patients. Generally, the dermatologic diagnoses most frequently missed by the referring service were common conditions with established treatment. CONCLUSION: The overall impact of dermatologic consultation on health delivery to patients was substantial. Important recommendations to any health care system are offered.
RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: A survey was undertaken in patients of sexually transmitted infections with the aim of exploring STD and HIV prevention opportunities. METHODS: A behavioral survey was conducted on 56 soldiers while being treated or followed up for a sexually transmitted disease. They were studied for their attitude and sexual activity patterns relevant to the transmission of STDs. In addition, the individual's outlook to sexual life and motivation factors was assessed. RESULTS: The study revealed that the source of infection of STD was equally divided between commercial sex worker (CSW) and casual sexual relationships. The majority did not use barrier contraceptives and knowledge about their protective role was insufficient. Access to health education was satisfactory; however, awareness levels for preventive action were still inadequate. Homosexuality was rare and most soldiers could stay without frequent sex. Alcohol was not found to be a significant co-factor. CONCLUSIONS: Heterosexual contact remains the main route of sexual contact. A wide variation in casual relationships and motivating factors was noted. Long abstinence and transit periods, traditionally considered major reasons for a soldier's indulgence in sex did not seem to play a major role. The role of sex parlors in the army was negated.
RESUMEN
An 18-year-old man presented with erythematous hyperkcratotic plaques symmetrically distributed on the extremities of 12 years duration. Histopathology confirmed the clinical diagnosis of symmetrical progressive erythrokeratoderma.