Spectrum of skin disorders among primary school children in Umuahia, South-East Nigeria

Background: Skin disorders among primary school children are common in many countries, with a variable spectrum. They can constitute major health problems, resulting in considerable discomfort, parental anxiety, and embarrassment to the child. Aim: To determine the prevalence and pattern of skin diseases among primary school children in the Umuahia South local government area. Subjects and Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out over a 4-month period from December 2016 to March 2017 among school children consecutively recruited from their various primary schools. Result: A total of 1560 children aged 5 to 15 years with a mean age of 8.74 & PLUSMN; 2.079 years were studied. The overall prevalence of skin diseases was 40.2%. The prevalence in public schools was 46.0%, whereas the prevalence in private schools was 33.2% (P < 0.001). Skin eruptions and itchy skin were the most common presentations, whereas tinea capitis, pityriasis versicolor, and scabies were the most common skin diseases noted among the school children. Conclusion: The prevalence of skin diseases in the population studied is high, especially in public schools. The most common manifestation of skin disease is rash, and the most common type of skin disease is tinea capitis. It is recommended that standard hygienic practices should be maintained by primary school children and their parents/caregivers to prevent skin diseases.