Spectrum of Dermatoses and Infections Affecting the Lower Leg and Foot in an Outpatient Clinic at a Tertiary Care Hospital.

Abstract

Background: Infections and dermatoses of the lower leg and foot can be attributed to factors such as blood stagnation, chemical contact, and abnormal mechanics. These factors make the lower leg and foot more susceptible to microbial infections, contact dermatitis, stasis eczema, ulcers, corns, and calluses.

Objective: To identify the patterns of infections and dermatoses on the lower leg and foot.

Methods: This study took place between September 2020 and August 2021 at an outpatient dermatology clinic. All patients with lower leg and foot skin conditions were included in the study, irrespective of age, sex, or occupation. Patients with generalized lesions all over the body were excluded.

Results: Of the 42,527 patients who presented to the outpatient dermatology clinic during the study period, 424 patients (1%) had lower leg and foot skin conditions. The ratio of male to female patients was 2.3:1. Patients ranged in age from 4 to 76 (mean, 44.8 ± 15) years. A total of 152 patients had infections, and 272 patients had dermatoses. Fungal infection (21.7%) was most common among patients with infections, followed by bacterial (8.25%) and viral infections (7.07%). Lichen simplex chronicus (29.3%) and dermatoses due to venous stasis (19%) were most common among patients with dermatoses. The most commonly involved site was the shin, followed by the dorsum and sole of the foot.

Conclusions: The identification of high-risk patients is key in taking preventive measures to avoid complications.