A Study and Analysis of Panniculitides

Abstract

Background: Panniculitis refers to a group of inflammatory conditions affecting the subcutaneous fat (panniculus). These disorders can present with varied clinical features and may be associated with a wide range of underlying causes, including infections, autoimmune diseases, and trauma. The study aims to analyze the clinical characteristics, etiology, and management strategies for panniculitides.

Methods: A analysis was conducted on 150 patients diagnosed with panniculitis over a period of two years in a tertiary care hospital. Patients were assessed for clinical features, laboratory findings, underlying causes, and response to treatment. The study focused on the different types of panniculitides, including erythema nodosum, lobular panniculitis, and septal panniculitis.

Results: The study revealed that erythema nodosum (EN) was the most common type of panniculitis, accounting for 55% of cases. The leading underlying causes of panniculitis were infections (30%), autoimmune diseases (25%), and drug reactions (15%). A positive response to treatment was observed in 80% of the patients, with the most common treatment modalities being corticosteroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Conclusion: Panniculitides encompass a broad spectrum of diseases, and prompt identification of the underlying cause is crucial for effective management. Early diagnosis, including histopathological examination, is essential for determining the appropriate treatment. Management usually includes corticosteroids, NSAIDs, or immunosuppressive therapy based on the etiology.

Keywords: Panniculitis, erythema nodosum, lobular panniculitis, autoimmune disease, corticosteroids.