Clinico-epidemiological Profile of Facial Dermatoses among Adolescents

The face is an important component of individual identity and undesirable changes in facial skin affect the quality of life of individuals, particularly adolescents (10-19 years). They often experience issues like acne vulgaris due to hormonal changes and the consequent psychosocial impact is higher. In Nepal, adolescents represent 23.6% of the population. This study investigates the prevalence and types of facial dermatoses among Nepalese adolescents attending a tertiary care center.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 290 adolescents with facial dermatoses presenting to Nepal Medical College Teaching Hospital from October 2023 to September 2024. Data was collected using a structured proforma and clinical examinations, with additional tests as required. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 16.

Of the 290 participants, 48.62% were male and 51.38% female, predominantly aged 17-19 years (36.55%). The majority (66.90%) were Hindu. The most common facial dermatoses were appendageal disorders (43.07%), infections and infestations (20.34%), and eczemas (16.55%). In appendageal disorders, acne vulgaris was most common representing 42.07% of all facial dermatosis. In infections, viral infection was the most common (11.72%) of all facial dermatosis and pityriasis alba was most common (7.59%) of eczemas seen, Males had higher rates of infections (67.80%), while eczemas were more common in females (58.33%). No significant association was found between gender and acne status (p=0.1), severity (p=0.19), bacterial infection (p-value= 0.502), fungal infection (p- value= 1), viral infection (p= 0.85), eczema (p= 0.449), pigmentary disorder (p= 0.071), vascular lesions (p= 1.2) and nevus (p= 0.069).

Facial skin disorders, particularly acne vulgaris, are prevalent among Nepalese adolescents and affect their well-being. The findings accentuate the importance of addressing these conditions to reduce their psychological and social impacts. Further research is needed to explore facial dermatoses across different regions of Nepal.