Published Paper Details:

Skin diseases are major health problem in all age groups, especially in pediatric age group, one among them, Karappan (Eczema). Eczema is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the skin and it affects up to 30% of children. Prevalence of eczema in worldwide is 15 million. In those 10% are children / infants. Eczema can have a considerable impact on the quality of life of children and their families. The main objective of the present study is to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors of Karappan (Eczema) in school going children. This study was conducted in Kuzhandhai maruthuvam OPD of Ayothidoss Pandithar hospital, National Institute of Siddha, Chennai and approved by IEC (Institutional Ethics Committee) and also properly registered with CTRI. 200 children were selected with skin disease by systematic random sampling method. Data were collected by using a self structured questionnaire. This study reveals that the prevalence of Karappan in school going children was increasing and is mainly triggered by food allergy and house mites.