Predisposing factors and common clinical presentation of Psoriasis in rural population of Western Maharashtra.

Abstract

Psoriasis is a non-contagious inflammatory skin disorder characterized by dry, erythematous, scaly plaques that develops over various parts of body. Prevalence of psoriasis is 0-11.8% around the globe which varies from region to region and increasing globally. Its clinical presentation also varies depending upon the environmental, hereditary and various other predisposing factors. Knowledge of common clinical presentations and predisposing factors is essential in prevention, early diagnosis and treatment.

Objectives: To study the predisposing factors and common clinical presentations of psoriasis in patients.

Methods: A modified, pre-tested, semi-structured Psoriasis Evaluation plus Medication survey questionnaire was used in patients of psoriasis presenting to the skin department of Pravara Rural Hospital, Loni this study.

Results: Proportion of psoriasis was high in males of 20-40 years with positive family history. There was no significant association psoriasis with addiction. Psoriatic patches were of non-red, thickened, scaly in nature commonly observed on leg, forearm and scalp. The involvement of fingernail, toenail and combination of both along with Psoriatic arthritis was significantly higher in males.

Conclusion: Male predominance, family history is the common predisposing factors which are found to be associated with Psoriasis. There is involvement of 1-3 regions of body and non-red, thickened, scaly type of pattern of psoriasis is seen in psoriatic patients of rural western Maharashtra, which may be helpful in prevention and early detection of psoriasis.