The frequency of common nonmalignant skin conditions in adults in central Victoria, Australia

Background Nonmalignant skin conditions are believed to be common in adults , although there are very few community-based studies to determine their ex act frequency. Objective To record the prevalence of common, nonmalignant skin conditions in adults in central Victoria, Australia. Methods A total of 1457 respondents from a random selection of adults aged 20 years and over from Maryborough, central Victoria, were given a total bo dy examination by a dermatologist or dermatology trainee. People with any n ail or skin signs suggestive of tinea had scrapings taken for fungal cultur e. Results The age- and sex-adjusted prevalence of warts was 7.1% (95% confide nce interval (CI), 5.8-8.4%), acne 12.8% (95% Gl, 11.0-14.5%), atopic derma titis 6.9% (95% CI, 5.6-8.3%), seborrheic dermatitis 9.7% (95% CI, 8.2-11.2 %), asteatotic dermatitis 8.6% (95% CI, 7.1-10.0%), psoriasis 6.6% (95% CI, 5.7-7.9%), culture-positive tinea 12% (95% CI, 10.3-13.6%), seborrheic ker atoses 58.2% (95% CI, 55.6-60.7%), and Campbell de Morgan spots (cherry ang iomas) 54.4% (95% CI, 51.9-57.0%). There was Variation in the prevalence of many of these conditions with age. Conclusions This study demonstrates that nonmalignant skin conditions are c ommon in adults in Australia. Their diagnosis and management represent a co nsiderable burden not only to those suffering from the conditions, but also to the health system which provides for their care.