CLINICO-EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY OF ECZEMA PATTERNS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Background: Eczema is a common inflammatory skin disorder characterized by pruritus, erythema, and a chronic relapsing course. The clinical patterns and epidemiological characteristics of eczema vary widely depending on demographic factors, occupational exposure, and environmental conditions. Understanding the local distribution of eczema is essential for effective prevention and management. Objectives: To evaluate the clinico-epidemiological profile of eczema among patients attending a tertiary care hospital, with emphasis on demographic characteristics, clinical patterns, and associated factors. Materials and Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Dermatology of a tertiary care hospital over a period of 12 months. A total of 200 patients clinically diagnosed with eczema were included. Data regarding age, gender, occupation, clinical type of eczema, site of involvement, duration of disease, and associated factors were collected using a structured proforma. Diagnosis was made on clinical grounds, and relevant investigations were performed where necessary. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The majority of patients were males (58%), with the most affected age group being 21–40 years (34%). Contact dermatitis was the most common clinical pattern (32%), followed by atopic dermatitis (22%) and hand eczema (16%). Upper limbs were the most frequently involved site (45%). Occupational exposure was identified as a major associated factor in a significant proportion of patients, and nearly half presented with chronic disease. Conclusion: Eczema exhibits varied clinico-epidemiological patterns in a tertiary care setting, with contact dermatitis being the predominant type. Occupational and environmental factors play a crucial role in disease occurrence and persistence. Early identification, preventive measures, and patient education are vital to reduce disease burden and improve patient outcomes.