DERMATOLOGICAL CHALLENGES: ADOLESCENTS STRUGGLING WITH SKIN PROBLEMS.

J Peop Univ Med Health Sci. 2025:15(2),72-78. http://doi.org/10.46536/jpumhs/2025/15.02. 625

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Adolescence is the period of development from childhood to adult life, which starts with puberty. As a transitional phase with bio-psycho-social development, this period is very challenging for both parents and children. OBJECTIVE: To fathom out the pattern and frequency of skin diseases in adolescent patients presenting in tertiary care hospital. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College from Jan to Dec 2023. Adolescents (10–19 years) with puberty-related skin conditions were enrolled via non-probability convenience sampling. Hormonal dermatoses were included; congenital and unrelated conditions were excluded. Diagnoses were clinical, supported by investigations where needed. Data were recorded using a structured proforma, and dermatoses were grouped into ten categories for analysis. RESULTS: A total of 331 adolescents (mean age 15.75 ± 0.29 years; 56.2% females) were enrolled. Most (67.4%) were aged 15–19 years. Infections (27.8%) and infestations (24.8%) were the most common dermatoses, followed by acne (20.2%) and eczema (15.7%). Fungal infections were noted in 12.7%, with pityriasis versicolor and tinea being most frequent. Viral infections (7%) included warts, chickenpox, and molluscum. Five females with hirsutism were diagnosed with PCOS. Dermatoses were grouped into ten categories for descriptive analysis. CONCLUSION: Adolescents frequently present with infections, infe tations, acne, and eczema, which significantly affect quality of life. Though less common, papulosquamous, hair, and nail disorders also carry considerable psychosocial impact.