Perception of Stretch Marks Risk Factors Among Adults in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Background Striae distensae (SD) or stretch marks are a common dermatological condition where the dermis becomes scarred. This phenomenon is associated with many risk factors. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical variables and risk factors in patients with SD in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the clinical variables and risk factors for stretch marks among adults in Riyadh, KSA. An electronic questionnaire with an informed consent section was distributed randomly to a sample of adult patients in Riyadh city, KSA, from April to June 2021. A sample size of 512 participants was calculated using the Cochran formula (n = Z2pq/e2), considering 95% confidence and precision of at least ±5%. A 95% confidence level yielded Z values of 1.96, per the normal tables. Results A total of 512 participants were included in this study. This study found that 41.4% of the participants were aged 15 to 25 years of which, 70.4% of the participants were females, and 38.2% had a body mass index (BMI) of 24 or more. More than half of the participants (54.0%) indicated white skin color. The most prevalent area of striae, as reported by the participants, was the abdomen (57%). Around 19.1% of the participants with stretch marks stated that they were smokers, and 23.9% stated that they were obese o, had a chronic condition such as hypertension or diabetes mellitus. The majority of the participants (70.5%) had a family history of stretch marks. Conclusions This study showed that the prevalence of stretch marks was higher in females, younger participants, smokers, participants with a family history of stretch marks, and participants with a higher BMI and multiparity. More studies should be conducted to assess the correlations between these factors and the presence of stretch marks, and their influence on the quality of life of individuals.

Manifestations of ocular rosacea in females with dark skin types.

BACKGROUND: Current knowledge about ocular rosacea in dark skin individuals is lacking. The prevalence of ocular rosacea varies considerably among studies and is probably higher than previously presumed. OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence and pattern of ocular rosacea among dark skinned female patients, compare it with fair skinned, and to correlate the severity of cutaneous disease with ocular findings. METHOD: Female patients diagnosed with rosacea between 2011 and 2013 were studied prospectively. They were referred to ophthalmology for clinical observations and slit lamp examination. In all patients Schirmer and Tear break up time tests to diagnose dry eye were performed. RESULT: Fifty six consecutive female patients, joined the study with different skin types ranging from skin type 4 to 6. A total of 43 patients (76.8%) were positive for ophthalmologic findings. The most frequent symptoms were itching, burning sensation and redness, while the most frequent signs were meibomian gland dysfunction, dry eyes, eyelid telangiectasia and irregular margin. Significant correlation was noted between meibomian gland dysfunction and irregular lid margin (P = 0.003). Dry eye and Schirmer test significantly correlated with eye lid telangiectasia (p = 0.004; 0.015) respectively. No significant correlation was found between the severity of cutaneous disease and ocular findings. CONCLUSION: Ocular rosacea in dark skinned females is a common presentation and is comparable to that reported for fair skin, with eyelid telangiectasia and meibomian gland dysfunction being early phenomena. Earlier onset and more benign course were seen compared to other studies. Ocular and cutaneous rosacea are independent of each other.