The profile and distribution of skin disorders in ambulatory community-dwelling adult patients with Schizophrenia: a study from North India

IntroductionSchizophrenia is a severe mental disorder. There is ample evidence to suggest that there are various multi-systemic co-morbidities in the patients with schizophrenia. However, data for dermatological comorbidities in these patients is scarce. This is relevant because of the common embryological basis of the central nervous system and skin, and also the disabling nature of schizophrenia itself. ObjectiveTo analyze the profile and distribution of cutaneous conditions in patients with schizophrenia. MethodsConsecutive adult patients with schizophrenia attending the follow-up service of the outpatient clinic of the department of psychiatry of a tertiary hospital in North India were evaluated for the presence of a skin disorder by a dermatologist. ResultsDermatological findings were seen in 71 patients (69.60%), 39 patients (38.23%) had multiple skin conditions. As a group, infections were the most prevalent diagnosis seen in 18 patients (17.64%) and fungal infections were commonly observed (n=14, 13.72%). Other common dermatoses were nevi, age related cutaneous changes, dyschromias and drug-induced acne. Among medical disorders, blood pressure was found to be elevated in 28 patients (27.45%) while sixty-four patients (69.74%) were either overweight or obese. ConclusionA high prevalence of dermatological diseases is seen in patients with schizophrenia. Both caregivers and psychiatrists managing these patients should familiarize themselves with these conditions and dermatology consultation should be sought for the prompt diagnosis and management.