A STUDY ON CLINICAL PROFILE OF PATIENTS PRESENTING WITH PALMOPLANTAR DERMATOSIS

Abstract

Background: Palmoplantar dermatoses constitute a heterogeneous group of disorders affecting the palms and soles and are frequently encountered in dermatology outpatient departments. Clinical diagnosis is often challenging due to overlapping morphology and modification by environmental and occupational factors.

Objectives: To study the clinical and epidemiological profile of patients presenting with palmoplantar dermatoses in a tertiary care centre in North-East India.

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted over a period of six months in the Department of Dermatology, Silchar Medical College. Seventy newly diagnosed patients with palmoplantar dermatoses were included. Detailed history, clinical examination, and relevant investigations were performed. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results: Among 70 patients, males constituted 55.7% and females 44.3%. The most common age group affected was 21–40 years (42.8%). Pruritus was the most common symptom (71.4%). Palmoplantar psoriasis was the most frequent diagnosis (27.1%), followed by eczema (22.8%) and dermatophytosis (12.8%). Bilateral involvement of palms and soles was observed in 40% of cases.

Conclusion: Palmoplantar dermatoses are common among the working population and show diverse clinical patterns. Early diagnosis with clinic-morphological correlation is essential for appropriate management.