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Non infectious dermatoses of the scalp – a north indian study

Authors:Vivasvat Bakaya, Arvind Krishna, B.S. Rathore
Int J Biol Med Res. 2017; 8(2): 5905-5909  |  PDF File

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Hair and scalp disorders generally are not associated with significant physical morbidity but the psychological impact of visible scalp problems may be very high. The scalp is unique among skin areas in humans, with high follicular density and a high rate of sebum production. As there is a paucity of studies on scalp dermatoses in the Indian and the Western literature, a clinical spectrum of these scalp dermatoses can unravel the common clinical manifestations in our population. OBJECTIVES: To study the pattern of non infectious disorders affecting the scalp. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was undertaken from November 2014 to July 2016. Patients coming to out-patient department with scalp lesions were examined. Patients with scalp dermatoses on routine clinical examination were also included in the study. Patients with infective scalp dermatoses, hair shaft disorders & androgenetic alopecia were excluded from the study. Detailed history, physical examination & relevant investigations including scalp biopsy were carried out. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Majority of the non infectious scalp diseases were seen in the 3rd decade of life (24.76%), followed by the 4th decade of life (16.67%). Males (66%) were affected more than females (34%). Majority of the patients were from an urban setting (51.33%). Parietal area was the most commonly area of scalp involved (39.05%). Scaling disorders predominated in our study (53.80%). Psoriasis was the most common deramtoses seen (52.38%) followed by alopecia areata (30.95%). CONCLUSION: This study emphasizes the fact that many of the common non-infectious dermatoses can significantly involve the scalp and can have overlapping symptoms and presentations making the diagnosis difficult. It also gives a precise clinical insight into scalp dermatoses and thereby helps us manage the patient better.