Journal Issue: Volume: 21, No. 2 (2023)
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Volume
Number
Issue Date
2023
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
ISSN 2091-0231 eISSN 2091-167X
Journal Volume
Articles
Teledermatology in Developing Countries (Chances and Obstacles)
(Society of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists of Nepal (SODVELON), 2023) Burg, Günter
Abstract:
Telemedicine has started to be a serious tool for the improvement of healthcare in rural areas of poor developing but also in rich industrial countries. Teledermatology as a subspeciality of telemedicine is particularly suitable for diagnosing and monitoring diseases over distance. However some dermatoses are less, others are more suitable for remote management. The technologies used provide big chances if the many obstacles can be overcome.
Is Aesthetic Dermatology in Unsafe Hands? Authors
(Society of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists of Nepal (SODVELON), 2023) Bhusal, Mohan; Thapa, Deeptara Pathak
Abstract:
Aesthetic Dermatology is one of the growing subspecialities that involves noninvasive to minimally invasive cosmetic procedures. It has overlapping scope with Aestheticians, Beauticians, and Non-Dermatologist medical practitioners, adding ambiguity and ethical issues. There have been global reports of invasive procedures done by Beauticians and Aestheticians leading to complications like scalp burn, infection and stroke which later led to development of guidelines in different countries. There is a strong need to develop similar guidelines in Nepal in collaboration with different stakeholders. Also, it is equally important to create public awareness so that public will be better informed about whom to consult for their skin concerns, and if needed report to governing bodies regarding negligence.
Clinicoepidemiological Profile and Sexual Behaviour Pattern of Patients with Anogenital Warts
(Society of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists of Nepal (SODVELON), 2023) Pandit, Anup; Tangbetani, Laila Lama; Dangol, Nhuchhe Man Singh; Ranjit, Sudina
Abstract:
Introduction: Anogenital wart (AGW) is the infection of the anal and genital mucosa and their adjoining areas by Human papilloma virus (HPV) 6, 11. Genital HPV infections are transmitted primarily through sexual contact. This study determines the clinicoepidemiological profile and sexual behavior patterns in patients with AGW.
Materials and Methods: A hospital-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in patients diagnosed with AGW attending the Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Bir Hospital between November 2019 and December 2020.
Results: A total of 77 patients including 58 males and 19 females diagnosed with AGW were studied. The warts were recorded more commonly in married individuals (62.3%). The most common sites of warts were penis (84.5% of males) and vulva (57.9% of females) followed by perianal skin, and perineum in both males and females. Of the various morphologies, dome shaped warts were most commonly observed (58.6% in males and 73.7% in females). The individuals with extramarital contacts were at significantly more risk of AGW than those without such contacts (P =0.001). AGW cases were seen more frequent in patients with syphilis and HIV (7.8% and 2.6% respectively) compared to general population.
Conclusion: Genital warts were more common in 16 – 25 years of age, mostly married, and polygamous. Like all STD (sexually transmitted diseases), Genital warts (GWs) have important effects on the health of society and quality of life. Hence, awareness of the clinical presentations, sexual aspects, and possible risk factors of GWs leads to the use of effective protection measures.
Comparison of Efficacy of Localized Narrow-Band UVB Therapy Versus Localized PUVA Therapy in Chronic Hand Eczema
(Society of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists of Nepal (SODVELON), 2023) Khadka, Dhan Keshar; Agrawal, Sudha; Rijal, Arpana; Shrestha, Samir
Abstract:
Introduction: Hand eczema is a type of dermatitis largely confined to the hands. Narrowband UVB (NBUVB) appears to be as effective as topical PUVA therapy in the treatment of chronic hand dermatitis. However, the risks of phototoxicity and dyspigmentation associated with local PUVA therapy make NBUVB therapy a preferable initial therapeutic option.
Methods and Methodology: A total of 40 patients with chronic hand eczema were randomly divided into two groups: Group A (20) receiving localized NBUVB and Group B (20) receiving localized PUVA therapy. They were administered the designated treatment modality for the period of 8 weeks. They were evaluated every 2 weeks to see for the clinical response and any side effects.
Results: In group A, there was around 47% and 85% improvement in Clinical Assessment Score (CAS) at weeks 4 and 8 respectively. Similarly, in group B, there was around 52% and 86% improvement in CAS at weeks 4 and 8 respectively. The improvement in terms of the mean of CAS in cases of group B was more compared to group A. (p=0.636 at week 4 and 0.578 at week 8).
Conclusion: Light-based modalities of treatment in the form of localized NBUVB and PUVA can be considered as an alternative treatment of choice in cases of hand eczema as they have been shown effective by the reduction in the clinical assessment score. However, there was no statistically significant difference in the reduction in the mean clinical assessment score among the patients treated with either localized NBUVB or PUVA.
The Cost of Diagnosis of Leprosy by Active Case Detection in Kailali, Nepal
(Society of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists of Nepal (SODVELON), 2023) Baskota, Rabindra; Rupakheti, Dinesh; Rai, Anjan; Gyawali, Bikram; Baral, Rashmi
Abstract:
Introduction: Leprosy is a is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. Current modalities for early diagnosis of leprosy include active case detection campaigns, contact tracing, and skin camps. Active case detection is an effective strategy that enables early treatment, prevents impending disability, and potentially stops the spread of leprosy.
Objectives: This study was conducted to determine the cost of early diagnosis of leprosy by active case detection method in Lamkichuha Municipality of Kailali district.
Materials and Methods: In coordination with the Municipality, Leprosy Control and Disability Management Section of Ministry of Health and Population conducted a survey in July of 2022. Using active case detection method, orientation on leprosy was given to health workers followed by household visit and screening of skin lesions suggestive of leprosy. Suspected cases were confirmed by dermatologists. Data obtained from the campaign was analyzed and results presented as cost per patient.
Results: The team screened 4526 families that included 21472 persons in the Lamkichuha Municipality. Among them, 195 were suspected as leprosy by the health workers and referred to referral health facility for diagnosis. Three of them were confirmed as leprosy resulting the prevalence rate of 1.4 per 10,000 populations. The average cost spent per patient was NRS 250000 (2000 USD).
Conclusion: The cost of diagnosis of leprosy by active case detection is high. The national programs should prioritize cost-effective modalities including the awareness raising campaigns for early diagnosis.