A study of erythematous facial dermatoses in Thais dermatologic patients in a university hospital

Abstract

© 2018, Medical Association of Thailand. All rights reserved. Background: Erythematous facial dermatoses is a common dermatological condition caused by a variety of skin disorders and underlying systemic diseases. Little is known about this disorder in Asian skin types. Objective: To examine clinical presentation, investigation, final diagnoses, treatments and comorbidities in Thai patients with erythematous facial dermatoses condition. Materials and Methods: A prospective study of 100 patients with red face attended the Dermatology outpatient clinic in a University Hospital. Results: There were 100 patients with erythematous facial dermatoses. The mean age was 36.8±12.6 years; 83% were female. The mean symptom duration was 2.5±3.3 years. Precipitating factors were exposure to ultraviolet light and heat. The most common complaint was itching. The most frequent causes of erythematous facial dermatoses were demodicosis (42%), allergic contact dermatitis (30%), seborrheic dermatitis (26%) and rosacea (12%). Demodicosis and allergic contact dermatitis were significantly associated (p = 0.002). Conclusion: Erythematous facial dermatoses can have several causes in the same patient. We recommend the Demodex density test and patch testing are undertaken to allow the correct diagnosis to be made and treatment given.