A clinico-epidemiological study of various keratinization disorders

Background: There is a vast spectrum of disorders with basic defect in the process of keratinization. There are various associations (genetic, autoimmune and environmental) with different keratinization disorders. The aims and objectives of this study to study the epidemiology, clinical features and associations in various keratinization disorders. Methods: A retrospective observational study of 500 patients was done in a tertiary care center. Detailed history was taken and clinical examination was done. Investigations and skin biopsy were performed when needed. Results: In our study of 500 cases of keratinizing disorders, there were 269 (53.8%) cases of psoriasis, 132 (26.4%) cases of  palmoplantar keratoderma, 22 (4%) cases of phrynoderma, 19 (3.8%) cases of ichthyosis, 13 (2.6%) cases of acanthosis nigricans, 11 (2.2%) cases of porokeratosis, 7 (1.4%) cases of Darier’s disease, 3 (0.6%) Cases of pityriasis rubra pilaris, 2 (0.4%) cases each of pachyonychia congenita and erythron keratoderma. The most common age group affected was 51-60 years (19.6%). Males to female ratio was 1.13:1. Chronic plaque psoriasis (43.51%) was the most common variant of psoriasis. Psoriasis vulgaris (75%) was the most common cause of erythroderma. Histopathological findings in all patients whose biopsy was taken was consistent with clinical diagnosis. Non trans gradient (97.75%) was the most common type of palmoplantar keratoderma. Ichthyosis vulgaris (47.38%) was the most common type of ichthyosis. Conclusions: Heredity plays an important role in keratinization disorders. Also, various comorbidities have been associated with different keratinization disorders. Hence, we need to look for these factors while evaluating the patients of keratinization disorders.