Prevalence of skin diseases in Nigerian children--(the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital) experience.

BACKGROUND: Skin diseases are frequently encountered in the tropics and are a serious cause of morbidity, disfigurement and distress in all age groups. The aim of this study is to determine prevalence and common dermatological conditions encountered in UPTH.

METHODS: Children aged 0-16 years attending the dermatology clinic in UPTH from June 2005 to November 2007 were prospectively studied.

RESULTS: A total of 1,226 skin disorders were seen, 247 (20.1%) were children aged 0-16 years. Skin disorder was commoner in females 139 (56.3%) than males 108 (43.7%). Papular urticaria 36 (14.6%), atopic dermatitis 34 (13.8%) and tinea 31(12.6%) were the most commonly observed childhood skin diseases.

CONCLUSIONS: Skin diseases such as papular urticaria and atopic dermatitis are important dermatological problems in our environment. Implementation of public health policies and improvement in personal hygiene would reduce the prevalence of skin diseases in Nigerian children.