REFERRALS IN DERMATOLOGY WHERE WE ARE AND OTHERS  ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE

K.  Kannambal; C. Gomathi; P.V.S. Prasad; P.K. Kaviarasan

Volume : VI, Issue : III, March - 2017

REFERRALS IN DERMATOLOGY WHERE WE ARE AND OTHERS ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE

K. Kannambal, C. Gomathi, P. V. S. Prasad, P. K. Kaviarasan

Abstract :

Aim & Objectives: Majority of the dermatological consultations takes place on an outpatient basis. Most of these patients consult either general practitioners or other specialists where they are treated with various drugs without proper diagnosis. Skin not only has the credit of being the largest organ of the body but it is a mirror reflecting assaults from various underlying disorders and hence the role of dermatologist in patient care is increasing. This study is done to find out the common causes of referrals to a dermatologist and the source of these referrals. Methods: This descriptive study on 1000 referrals was conducted in a 1260 bedded Rajah Muthiah Medical College and Hospital was analyzed over a period of 3 years. Results: Dermatological consultations were sought for common skin problems. Most referrals were not in order. In 13% of referrals the dermatologists were able to suggest a better treatment on the basis of dermatological diagnosis. Interestingly even systemic diseases, like diabetes was picked up for the first time in some cases only after dermatologist�s suspicion. Conclusion: Our study revealed the importance of dermatologist�s opinion and the necessity to establish a relationship between the need, awareness of common dermatological problems and demand for dermatological care with improvisation of approach.