Background: Paediatric dermatoses varies from adult dermatoses in terms of clinical presentation, treatment and prognosis. This creates a special interest in this field. Skin diseases are major health issues in this age group and it reflects the status of public health and personal hygiene of the community. The present study was done to evaluate the pattern and spectrum of skin disorders in paediatric population in dermatology outpatient department of a tertiary care centre.

Methods:A cross–sectional study was conducted in dermatology outpatient department of Govt.Kilpauk medical college hospital, Chennai from July 2017 to December 2017.All children upto 12 years attending the Dermatology OP from July 2017 to December 2017 were included. A total of 2247 children (1228 Male, 1019 Female) were included in the study. A detailed history, thorough clinical, cutaneous and systemic examination was done along with relevant investigation as and when needed. The findings were recorded in proforma and data were analyzed.

Results: A total of 2247 children were included in the study. Out of 2247 children there were about 1228 males and 1019 were Females. Infection and infestations (59.1%) formed the majority of dermatoses followed by IBR (18.4%)and miliaria(9.88%). Among infections impetigo was common and among infestations scabies was the most common disorder. Some of the rarest dermatoses were also seen during the study since it is a tertiary care hospital.

Conclusion: Infection and infestation were the common disorder in our study followed by insect bite allergy, which reflects the need for improving the personal hygiene, skin care and socio economic status of the society.