Related Experiment Videos
Clinico epidemiological study of pityriasis alba
Sujatha Vinod1, Gurcharan Singh, K Dash
1Department of Dermatology Command Hospital, Air Force, Bangalore-560 007, India.
Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology
|July 28, 2007
Summary
Pityriasis alba, a common skin condition, frequently occurs in Indian children with atopic backgrounds. This study highlights common clinical features and associated conditions like helminthiasis and iron deficiency anemia.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Pityriasis alba is frequently observed in dermatological practice.
- There is a lack of Indian studies on pityriasis alba.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a clinico-epidemiological study of pityriasis alba in Indian patients.
- To identify associated conditions and histological features.
Main Methods:
- A study of 200 patients attending the skin department of Command Hospital, Air Force, Bangalore.
- Clinical examination, bacterial and fungal cultures, and histological examination were performed.
Main Results:
- 85.5% of patients had an atopic background.
- Helminthiasis and iron deficiency anemia were detected in 15.5% and 16.5% of patients, respectively.
- Facial involvement was observed in 91% of patients. Histological features included hyperkeratosis, parokeratosis, acanthosis, spongiosis, and perivascular infiltration.
Conclusions:
- Pityriasis alba is common in Indian patients, often associated with atopy.
- Infective aetiology was not found. Associated conditions include helminthiasis and iron deficiency anemia.
- Histological findings are consistent and aid in diagnosis.
