Dermatological Manifestations Associated with Rheumatic Disorders in a Tertiary Care Center

Background and Aim: Rheumatic diseases encompass a diverse range of conditions, many of which present with notable skin manifestations. This research aimed to explore the patterns of skin-related symptoms seen in patients with rheumatic disorders at a tertiary care centre. Materials and Methods: This analysis was done in the dermatological department with the linked medical college and hospital. The study involved 50 patients, including newly diagnosed and referred rheumatoid arthritis patients. The study collected demographic data such age, gender, occupation, residence, and clinical diagnosis. The study focused on lupus, scleroderma, rheumatoid, psoriatic, and systemic vasculitis. Results: Sixteen out of 50 cases had lupus erythematosus, 10 had scleroderma, followed by dermatomyositis and cutaneous vasculitis. Two cases of Behçet’s illness were noted. Periungual erythema (n=11) and telangiectasias (n=10) were the most common symptoms of dermatomyositis (DM). Heliotrope rash, Gottron’s sign, and Gottron’s papules were observed in 12 and 10 cases, respectively. Palmar erythema (n=5), Shawl’s sign (n=3), and Holster’s sign (n=3) were also noted. Conclusion: Understanding these diseases’ skin signs is crucial. Joint clinics between rheumatologists and dermatologists can improve diagnosis, therapy, and follow-up, as well as prognosis.