Sociological implications of an epidemiological study of eczema in the City of Birmingham

Abstract

An epidemiological study has been made of 4696 cases of eczematous dermatitis referred to hospital outpatient clinics in the City of Birmingham over a 3-year period. Some sociological implications of the investigation are discussed. The need for further sociological accounts of skin disease is stressed.

Epidemiology of Skin Disease Among Children in a Referral Skin Clinic in Singapore

“…This was in contrast to previous reports that the prevalence of endogenous eczema tends to de-crease with age (5). However, the frequency distribution of atopic eczema and nonspecified eczema (the majority of which were probably atopic eczema) decreased with age, supporting the observations of other investigators (3). In contrast, the frequency distribution of nummular eczema, hand-foot eczema, and lichen simplex chronicus appeared to increase with age, which was expected (3).…”

Pattern of Skin Disease at the Ethio‐Swedish Pediatric Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

“…Allergic skin disease was the most common pediatric skin disorder (1,2). Eczema, fungal and bacterial infections, parasitic infestations, viral infections, and photodermatosis, mainly polymorphic light eruption with or without residual hyperpigmentation, were significantly observed (1–5). Tinea capitis, impetigo, and viral warts were the common infections in children.…”

“…Verrucae and molluscum contagiosum are the next most common viral infections of children (1–5). These cases are also underreported, as most patients don't come to the hospital for treatment and some are advised by different specialists not to seek treatment, as these lesions resolve spontaneously.…”

In the United States, Blacks and Asian/Pacific Islanders Are More Likely Than Whites to Seek Medical Care for Atopic Dermatitis

“…Genetic, cultural, and physical factors contribute to the incidence and prevalence of atopic dermatitis. 1,[7][8][9] The factors that have been mentioned include increased susceptibility to the irritant effects of repeated washing, increased sensitivity to antigens such as house dust mites, early infant feeding practices, differences in access to medical care, and differences in staphylococcal colonizations predisposing children of black or related descent and Asian descent to atopic dermatitis. The lack of familiarity of Asian/Pacific Islanders with atopic dermatitis could also contribute to increased visits.…”