Overlap syndrome is a rare condition involving the coexistence of at least two distinct autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic sclerosis. This condition has limited studies on epidemiology probably because it is often under-recognized. We present a 22-year-old Filipino female with a 10-month history of hyperpigmented patches on the malar surface and extremities, with associated photosensitivity, fatigue, pallor, arthralgia, and oral ulcers, and positive antinuclear antibody titer. She was treated with oral Prednisone in tapering doses, leading to clinical improvement. Eight months later, there was a recurrence of hyperpigmented patches on the face and extremities with skin tightening and diffuse hair loss, development of shiny skin with facial fold loss, a beak-like nasal appearance, and episodes of dyspnea and malaise. Consistent with scleroderma, the patient was started on mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) 500 mg daily, with close monitoring for disease progression and systemic involvement. Overlap syndrome remains under-recognized due to its variable presentation and rarity. Treatment is individualized based on the specific connective tissue diseases involved and the patient’s symptoms. Multidisciplinary care is crucial for timely management and to adjust treatment as needed, given the potential for life-threatening complications involving cutaneous and internal organs.

Human ; Female ; Young Adult: 19-24 Yrs Old ; Histopathology ; Pathology ; Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic ; Scleroderma, Systemic

BACKGROUND

Pediatric dermatoses are multifactorial and diverse. Environmental factors play a significant role in skin disease. This study described the prevalence of common dermatoses among pediatric population seen at a tertiary referral center in Pangasinan.

METHODS

This was a 4-year retrospective, single center, chart review study in a tertiary referral hospital in Pangasinan. The researchers reviewed both electronic and medical charts of all pediatric outpatient and inpatient referrals with dermatoses from January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2022 by utilizing Proportion sampling technique.

RESULTS

This study reviewed a total of 501 (Males, 49.5% and Females, 50.5%) outpatient and inpatient pediatric patients who consulted due to skin related concerns. The majority of the patients were school-age children and adolescents followed by newborns, infants and toddlers respectively. Scabies infestation (n=76, 15.2%), Acne vulgaris (n=53, 10.6%) and Atopic dermatitis (n=48, 9.6%) were the top 3 common dermatoses among pediatric age groups. Scabies was the top diagnosis for both male (n=37, 14.9%) and female (n=39, 15.4%). Acne vulgaris (n=50, 31.6%) was the most common diagnosis in the adolescent age group.

CONCLUSION

There was wide variation in the most common dermatosis according to age, sex, and year. Poor sanitation, overcrowding and low socioeconomic status are important factors for the increased prevalence of parasitic infestations. Acne vulgaris was seen almost exclusively in adolescents. This study served as a preliminary epidemiological report on pediatric dermatoses in Region 1 Medical Center that may pave the way for well-controlled and better designed researches in the future.

Human ; Epidemiologic Studies

BACKGROUND

Scabies, recognized as one of the neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) by the WHO continues to persist in our locality today. Health education emerges as an indispensable tool, aimed at enhancing the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of Barangay Health Workers (BHWs). As the primary frontliners in our community, they encounter a wide array of skin conditions, but often lack the resources to manage them effectively.

OBJECTIVES

The primary objective of this study is to assess the impact of health education on the KAP of BHWs concerning Scabies infestation.

METHODS

A quasi-experimental, one-group pre-test-post-test design assessed the effectiveness of a 30-minute face-to-face lecture on BHWs’ KAP regarding Scabies infestation in the community. The study was conducted on April 25, 2023 at the Dagupan City Health office utilizing random population sampling.

RESULTS

The study included 45 BHW participants, 71.11% of whom had prior Scabies knowledge mainly from seminars/training (42.22%). Initially, most had poor baseline knowledge. Less than half (46.67%) identified skin manifestations and treatment accurately. Most displayed positive attitudes toward environmental management (91.11%) and fomite infection control (77.78%). After the lecture, the participants' total scores increased.

CONCLUSION

BHWs bridge the gap between healthcare and underserved populations. Equipping them with knowledge of diseases such as Scabies is imperative. This underscores the effectiveness of health education in enhancing their KAP towards Scabies. By empowering them, we can reduce the impact of NTDs in vulnerable communities. These findings have potential implications for future training programs, awareness campaigns, and further studies involving healthcare workers.

Human ; Scabies ; Health Education