Prevalence, Aetiology and Diagnostic Accuracy for Erythroderma in a Tertiary Centre in Portharcourt, Nigeria

Otike-Odibi Bolaji^1, and Ujile Ichechiek¹

¹Department of Internal Medicine, Dermatology/Rheumatology Unit, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital

Cite this paper:
Otike-Odibi Bolaji and Ujile Ichechiek. Prevalence, Aetiology and Diagnostic Accuracy for Erythroderma in a Tertiary Centre in Portharcourt, Nigeria. American Journal of Clinical Medicine Research. 2022; 10(1):27-31. doi: 10.12691/ajcmr-10-1-6

Abstract

Background: Erythroderma is a rare, life threatening dermatological emergency with multiple underlying aetiologies. Methods: We reviewed the clinical, laboratory and histologic findings of 22 patients diagnosed with erythroderma, who were managed in the dermatology unit over six years (from 2016 to 2021). Results: Symptoms were scaly lesions, generalized rash, itching, fever, pustules, and on examination there was lichenification. The Male to Female ratio was 1.75:1 with a mean age at diagnosis of 41.6+17.3 years. The causative factors were commonly idiopathic (59 %) and drug-induced (9%). Others were psoriasis, lichen planus, and onchodermatitis. The comorbidities identified were HIV and Chronic kidney disease. Test of agreement between clinical and pathological diagnosis was 62.5%. Conclusion: Erythroderma is more common in men, aetiology was mostly idiopathic Test of agreement between clinical and pathological diagnosis was 62.5, showing biopsies are an important aid in making a definitive diagnosis.

Keywords:
Erythroderma prevalence aetiology diagnostic accuracy

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