Clinico-epidemiological study of genodermatoses in pediatric age group

Abstract

Background: Genetic diseases causing abnormalities in structure and / or function of skin are termed as genodermatoses. As there is paucity of epidemiological data of genodermatoses from our country, this study was conducted to determine the latest clinical and epidemiological trends of pediatric genodermatoses. Methods: A hospital-based observational study consisting of 35 clinically diagnosed pediatric genodermatoses cases, who reported to the Dermatology OPD, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Pune, was conducted for a period of two years. Socio-demographic and clinical information was collected and clinical examination was performed on all patients to record any cutaneous / extra-cutaneous abnormality. The participants were then subjected to necessary investigations to elucidate the additional disease components. The data was evaluated using appropriate statistical methods. Results: Out of 4032 pediatric patients, 35 were found to have genodermatoses. Majority (57.14%) cases belonged to the first decade of life. There was no sexual predilection (male:female - 0.94:1). The commonest genodermatoses detected were neurofibromatosis and tuberous sclerosis (17.14% each). Most common mode of inheritance seen was autosomal dominant (57.14%). Family history and consanguinity were recorded in 45.71% and 22.86% cases respectively. Café-au-lait macules seen in 22.86% cases and ocular anomalies recorded in 34.38% cases were the commonest cutaneous and extracutaneous manifestations, respectively. Conclusions: Genodermatoses are rare skin disorders with systemic involvement at times, resulting in poorer prognosis. This necessitates more focus on this speciality.