Common skin diseases in children: A cross-sectional study from a semi-urban community in Bangladesh

Background: Skin diseases are a significant public health concern, especially in children. Semi-urban areas in Bangladesh present unique challenges due to their transitional nature between rural and urban environments. Understanding the prevalence and patterns of skin diseases in these settings is crucial for developing effective public health interventions. Objective: To determine the prevalence and patterns of skin diseases among children in a semi-urban area of Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 102 children (aged 0-15 years) from a semi-urban area of Bangladesh. Data on demographic characteristics, socioeconomic conditions, family history, and clinical presentations were collected. Skin scraps for fungal examination and other relevant investigations were performed. Results: The most common skin diseases were scabies (26.47%), contact dermatitis (26.47%), and tinea corporis (12.76%). Other prevalent conditions included hand, foot, and mouth disease (7.84%), atopic dermatitis (4.90%), and vitiligo (3.92%). Elevated serum IgE levels were observed in 28.43% of the participants, and skin scrapings were positive for fungus in 19.61%. The majority of lesions were located on the limbs (79.41%), followed by the trunk (66.67%) and face (40.20%). Conclusion: This study highlights the significant burden of skin diseases in children in semi-urban Bangladesh, particularly infectious and allergic conditions. These findings underscore the need for targeted public health interventions and improved access to healthcare for this vulnerable population.