Spectrum of Skin Diseases and Patient Demographics at the Outpatient Department of Community Based Medical College and Hospital, Bangladesh

Background: Skin diseases constitute a major public health concern in Bangladesh, particularly in community-based settings where overcrowding, poor hygiene, and limited health awareness contribute to increased transmission of communicable dermatoses. Understanding the pattern and seasonal variation of skin diseases is essential for effective resource allocation and preventive strategies. Objective: To determine the spectrum of skin diseases and their seasonal distribution among patients attending the Outpatient Department of Community-Based Medical College and Hospital, Bangladesh. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from January to December 2025 at the Dermatology Outpatient Department of Community Based Medical College and Hospital, Bangladesh. A total of 2733 patients were included using purposive sampling. Data were compiled and analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. Seasonal and categorical associations were assessed using the Chi-square test, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Among 2733 patients, scabies was the most common diagnosis (46.6%), followed by tinea infection (21.2%) and chronic dermatitis (11.2%). Infectious dermatoses constituted 70.7% of total cases, significantly higher than non-infectious conditions (p < 0.001). The highest patient attendance occurred during the monsoon season (37.5%), with infectious dermatoses showing significant seasonal variation and peaking during humid months (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Infectious skin diseases, particularly scabies and fungal infections, predominate in this community-based hospital setting, with marked seasonal influence. Strengthening public health education, hygiene promotion, and early intervention strategies is essential to reduce the burden of communicable dermatoses in Bangladesh.