A CLINICO-EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY ON PALMOPLANTAR DERMATOSES

Background: Dermatoses affecting the palms and soles are more common in our day-to-day practice, because they are most frequently exposed to various allergens, mechanical stress and infectious agents than any other parts in our body. Apart from the diagnostic difficulties, few palmoplantar dermatoses cause great discomfort and disability and may also affect a persons livelihood. Aim:To study the clinical features and frequency of involvement of various palmoplantar dermatoses and their epidemiological aspects like age, sex distribution and occupation. Methodology:100 patients with palmoplantar dermatoses diagnosed clinically attending the OPD in our Department, from 1st March 2021– 31st August 2022 were included in the study. Patients with complaints primarily pertaining to palms and soles with or without involvement of other body parts of all ages and both sexes were enrolled in the study. Investigations such as direct microscopic examination of scrapings, wet mount with potassium hydroxide, Woods 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 100 patients were enrolled, among which 63 were males and 37 were females. The most common age group affected was 17-40 years. Seasonal variation was reported in 41% of patients. The most common symptom was pruritis. Eczema was the most common palmoplantar dermatoses, followed by psoriasis and fungal infections. Majority of patients had involvement of both palms and soles. Conclusion:Palmoplantar dermatoses are very 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. This study highlights the need for comprehensive studies in palmoplantar dermatoses.