Histopathological Spectrum and Clinicopathological Correlation of Skin Lesions in a Tertiary Care Centre: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Skin lesions, ranging from benign to malignant, present a wide variety of clinical and histopathological features. Histopathological examination is essential for accurate diagnosis and management. This study aimed to analyse the histomorphological patterns of skin lesions in a tertiary care hospital, focusing on their distribution, classification, and age and site-specific trends.Methods: A total of 260 skin lesion cases were reviewed. Each case was subjected to histopathological evaluation, and correlated with clinical data. Lesions were categorized into non-neoplastic and neoplastic types, further subdivided into benign, precancerous, intermediate and malignant lesions. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to assess the prevalence and distribution of lesions based on age, sex, anatomical site, and histological subtype.Results: Non-neoplastic lesions were more common (81%), with microbial infections (28.09%) being the most common followed by non-infective vesiculobullous and vesiculopustular diseases (21.90%) and erythematous, papular, and squamous diseases (20.47%). Fungal infections, particularly tinea corporis, were the most frequent microbial condition. Neoplastic lesions accounted for 14% of cases, with benign tumours (61.11%) predominating in younger individuals. Seborrheic keratosis was the most common benign neoplasm (37.5%). Among malignant tumours, squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma were equally represented (50% each). The majority of lesions were located on the lower limbs for non-neoplastic lesions, and on the head and neck for neoplastic lesions.Conclusions: This study emphasizes the importance of histopathology in diagnosing skin lesions, highlights age- and site-specific trends, and underscores the need for routine biopsies for early detection and management.