The frequency and nature of skin conditions seen in a private dermatology practice in central Victoria, 1991-95

A dermatology diagnostic database was established in order to determine the frequency and nature of skin conditions in a private dermatological practice in Central Victoria, Australia. Between August 1991 and June 1995, a total of 3346 dermatological diagnoses were recorded for 3000 new patient presentations. More women (58.9%) were seen than men (41.1%). Dermatitis and tumours of the skin accounted for 50% of new consultation(s), the highest attendance being for solar keratoses (11.9%). The frequency of patients seen was comparable to the previous 1970s survey of private dermatological practice in Australia, with the exception of melanocytic naevi, which was seen with twice the frequency compared to previously. The proportion of patients presenting with dermatitis was higher in the colder seasons of the year (winter and spring compared with summer and autumn). The proportion of people seen with melanocytic naevi was higher in summer and autumn compared with winter and spring. These results illustrate the usefulness of recording clinical patient data in practice as a way of recording patterns of referral as well as having a role in determining causation of disease.