Prevallence of a topic dermatitis among Under fives attending public hospitals in Dar es salaam Tanzania 2008-2009

Abstract

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD), also known as atopic eczema is a very common skin disease. Its prevalence is thought to range from 5% to 20% worldwide. The exact cause is not known, but AD results from a combination of family heredity and a variety of conditions in everyday lives that trigger the itchy rash. It can interfere with social function and sleep. Its persistence and the accompanying pruritus may be stressful and frustrating for patients. Objective: To determine the prevalence of atopic dermatitis and associated eo- morbidities among children under the age of 5years attending public hospitals in Dar-es- Salaam. Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out between June 2008 and January 2009 in children less than five years attending RCH clinics in Dar es Salaam municipal hospitals. Simple random technique was used to recruit participants in the study. Data was collected using a standardized questionnaire and analysis done using EPI Info version 6 and SPSS version 13. Results: Of the 301 children enrolled in the study, 39 (13%) had atopic dermatitis. Of the 39 children, the majority 27 (69.2%) were below 1 year and most of them 15 (38.5%) were below 6 months of age. Children with associated co-morbidities were 19 (48.7%) and most of them were males 10/19 (52.6%). Allergic rhinitis was found in 10 (52.6%) children being the most frequent eo-morbidity disorder. Out of the 39 children with atopic dermatitis, 9 (53%) had a positive family history of atopic dermatitis. Conclusion and recommendation: The prevalence of AD was 13%. The same applied to the age of onset, clinical manifestation and associated co-morbidities. This study was conducted in public hospitals only, other children attending dispensaries and private hospitals were missed. A community based study is therefore recommended so as to determine the true prevalence of atopic dermatitis in Tanzania.