A review of a paediatric dermatology clinic in Malta

Abstract

A review of a Paediatric Dermatology clinic set up in 2009 at the Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Sir Paul Boffa Hospital, was carried out in 2011. The aim of the exercise was to identify the main conditions being seen in this clinic and to analyse management and referral patterns. Data was collected on a total of 130 patients (80 new and 50 follow-up). Of the patients attending, 86 (66%) were males and 44 (34%) were females. Overall, the commonest conditions seen were acne, eczema, naevi, fungal infections and psoriasis. General practitioners accounted for 69% of referrals whereas paediatricians and other specialists accounted for the other 31%. Of the 80 new patients seen, 55% were given a follow-up appointment in the Paediatric Dermatology clinic, 30% were discharged and 15% were given an appointment for further therapy e.g. skin surgery, laser treatment or cryotherapy. Parents/carers accompanying children to the clinic all stated that Saturday was the best day of the week for them to attend.