STUDY OF CUTANEOUS MANIFESTATIONS IN THYROID DISORDERS

BACKGROUND Thyroid disorders are known to involve all organ systems of the body, the skin being no exception. The present study is aimed to study various cutaneous manifestations and see cutaneous manifestations in thyroid disorders and to know various dermatologic associations of thyroid disorders. MATERIALS AND METHODS This is a prospective, observational study conducted over a period of 18 months in Department of DVL in a Tertiary Care Centre. All patients with thyroid abnormality and cutaneous manifestations are included in the study. Detailed clinical examination is done and the findings are recorded. RESULTS Thyroid disorders are more common in females. The most common age group affected by hypothyroidism was 31 - 40 years, hyperthyroidism is 21 - 30 yrs. Weight gain and dry skin were the commonest symptoms among hypothyroid patients and heat intolerance and increased sweating were commonest among hyperthyroid patients. Xerosis and dry, rough, coarse skin among hypothyroid patients; and warm, soft, velvety skin among hyperthyroid were commonest findings. Urticaria was the most common autoimmune association noted among hypothyroid patients. CONCLUSION With our study, it could be concluded that a better understanding complex interaction between skin and thyroid may help us not only to diagnose underlying thyroid abnormality, but also to monitor response of cutaneous features with treatment.