Nosological profile in a dermatology referral center in the state of Amazonas -Brazil.

BACKGROUNDS

Fundaments: Skin diseases are associated wih high morbidity, low mortality and low rate of hospitalization. However, they can cause considerable interference in physical and emotional well-being of the individual. Several of them reach large population, requiring specific interventions for their control.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the frequency of skin disease diagnosed in the dermatology service in Manaus, capital of Amazonas State.

METHODS

We collected data on registered sex, age, origin and diagnostics for the first consultation of patients attended between January 2000 and December 2007.

RESULTS

Of the 56.024 recorded visits, we obtained 56.720 cases of dermatological diagnoses, being the most common sexually transmitted diseases (25,12%), allergic skin disesases (14,03%), unspecified dermatoses (13,01%), leprosy (6,34%) and acne, seborrhea and related diseases (5,05%). The frequency was similar for both sexes, aged 20-29 years predominated and Manaus the origin most reported.

CONCLUSIONS

The pattern of skin diseases identified in this study may serve as a baseline to managers of health system in the region develop strategies for prevention and control of dermatoses, with emphasis on sexually transmitted diseases, allergic skin diseases, leprosy and acne.