Pattern of skin disorders among adolescent female students at Hyderabad, Sindh

ABSTRACT

To determine the pattern and severity of skin disorders among female adolescent students at Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan. This observational study was conducted at Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan, from August, 2007 to October, 2007. Four intermediate and degree colleges of the Hyderabad city were randomly selected and visited. The students were examined with regard to the type and severity of skin disorders. The findings were recorded on a pre-structured proforma. A total of 1350 students were examined. Their ages ranged from 16-24 years. Acne was the most common disorder seen in 59.5% of subjects followed by hair loss [59%], pigmentary disorders [36.3%], dandruff [26.1], hirsutism [20.9%], ephelides [6.4%], xerosis [2.9%], pityriasis versicolor [2.9%], pruritus [2.3%] and eczema [2.1%]. There were very few cases of pyoderma, tinea corporis and scabies. Skin disorders are common among adolescent college girls. The most prevalent group of skin disorders at this age is cosmetic one. Their proper management at earlier stages with education of patients is important to prevent late disfiguring complications and psychological sequelae