Berkala Ilmu Kesehatan Kulit dan Kelamin

Association of Personal Hygiene and Skin Disorders among Landfill Workers

Rakhel Putri Maharani — 2025-07-31

Background: Skin disorders are symptoms and signs that appear on the skin, such as redness, itching, bumps, cracked skin, and dry scaly skin caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasitic infections, allergic reactions, and personal hygiene factors. Workers, including waste pickers and scavengers, often neglect their personal hygiene habits. The risk of skin disorders is also due to their activities that are always in contact with waste that accumulates in landfills. Purpose: This study aimed to determine the relationship between personal hygiene and skin disorders in workers at Putri Cempo landfill, Surakarta. Methods: An analytic observational study with a cross-sectional design using convenience sampling was conducted. The study included a total of 51 waste haulers and 22 scavengers. Personal hygiene data collection was carried out by filling out a questionnaire; kin disorder data was collected by analyzation of symptoms and direct observation of signs of skin disorders in workers. The Chi-Square test and Cramer's V test were used to assess the association. Result: The prevalence of skin disorders among workers at Putri Cempo landfill, Surakarta, was 46.6%. The predilections of skin disorders were on the hands, feet, and nails, with 31.5% itchy complaints and 17.8% dry and scaly skin. There was a significant relationship (p <0.001) with a moderately strong correlation (v = 0.431) between personal hygiene and skin disorders. Conclusion: Personal hygiene is significantly associated and moderately correlated with skin disorders in workers at Putri Cempo landfill, Surakarta. A comprehensive approach to tackle the problems are urgently needed.

Challenges in Implementing the Triple Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission: A Study from Coastal Region of Ambon, Indonesia

Haris Liengga — 2025-07-31

Background: HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B can be transmitted during pregnancy, which can cause morbidity and mortality. Efforts to eliminate the transmission of IV, syphilis, and hepatitis B are contained in the Minister of Health Regulation through Antenatal Care services in community health centers by screening and case management of positive pregnant women. The coverage of triple elimination in Eastern Indonesia has not been implemented, especially in Ambon City, while the goal in 2022 is that 100% of pregnant women will be screened and managed to prevent perinatal transmission. Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the implementation of triple elimination screening including coverage, completeness, and infection rates in Ambon City. Methods: This study is a descriptive retrospective analysis based on medical records from four Community Health Centers during the year 2022. Result: Among 1,666 pregnant women, only one of the four centers (25%) met the national screening coverage target. None achieved 100% test completeness. Syphilis showed the highest infection rate (up to 12.2%), while hepatitis B rates were below the national threshold (≤7.1%) in all centers. Conclusion: Ambon City's triple elimination screening implementation has not met national criteria. Enhancing program efficacy requires expanding access to screening services and bolstering health education.

Characteristic of Herpes Zoster in the Elderly at Prof. Dr. I.G.N.G. Ngoerah General Hospital: An Epidemiologic Study

Felicia Emiliana Hosea — 2025-07-31

Background: Herpes zoster is a disease caused by the reactivation of the latent varicella zoster virus. Herpes zoster is the most common infection found in the elderly population. Epidemiologic data on herpes zoster infection among the elderly population in Bali remain limited. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the characteristics of herpes zoster infection in elderly patients in order to provide clinical decision-making related to the management and prevention of herpes zoster in the elderly. Methods: This study uses a retrospective descriptive and gets its information from the medical records of herpes zoster patients at the Dermatovenereology Polyclinic at Prof. Dr. I.G.N.G. Ngoerah General Hospital from January 2019 to June 2022. The study population consisted of patients aged 60 years or older who were diagnosed with herpes zoster and received treatment at the polyclinic during the study period. Result: This study found that 33 elderly patients were diagnosed with herpes zoster. The age group 60-69 years found the most herpes zoster, with 18 (54.6%) patients and 17 (51.5%) male patients. The elderly patients had more comorbidities, which are 22 (66.7%) patients, with the majority having cancer, 7 of 22 patients (31.8%). The thoracic dermatome affected 13 patients (39.4%), multidermatome involvement affected 16 patients (48.4%), and post-herpetic neuralgia affected 22 patients (66.7%). Conclusion: This study found that elderly herpes zoster patients were mostly in the age group of 60-69 years, had cancer comorbidities, and involved multidermatomes.

Exploring the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors Students in a Private High School Medan Students Regarding Sexually Transmitted Infections

Prenata Maestro — 2025-07-31

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a global public health issue, particularly among adolescents who face heightened risks due to biological, social, and behavioral factors. In Indonesia, STI cases continue to rise despite awareness efforts. A private religious school, offers a unique context for examining STI awareness, yet little research has focused on this population in Medan. Purpose: This study aims to assess STI knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors among private high school students, addressing a critical research gap. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 68 twelfth-grade students, selected via simple random sampling. Data were gathered through a validated 40-question survey on STI knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, and result are presented in descriptive statistics. Result: Findings showed that 47% of students had moderate STI knowledge, 26.5% high, and 26.5% low. Regarding attitudes, 61.8% were moderate and 38.2% showed strong preventive attitudes. Preventive behaviors were strong in 57.4%, moderate in 33.8%, and poor in 8.8%. Female students displayed higher understanding and more positive attitudes toward STI prevention than males. Conclusion: The study concludes that students of a private high school in Medan possess a moderate understanding of STIs, a generally moderate level of attitude and a high level of preventive behavior.

Exploring the Role of Psychosocial Factors in Medication Compliance among Gonorrhea Patients

Tangge Maler — 2025-07-31

Background: Gonorrhea is a globally prevalent sexually transmitted infection (STI) that continues to present a serious public health challenge, particularly in light of the increasing threat of antimicrobial resistance. Effective disease management depends significantly on patient adherence to prescribed treatments. However, suboptimal adherence is frequently reported, which undermines control efforts and contributes to the emergence of drug-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae strains. Purpose: This study aimed to identify factors influencing medication adherence among patients diagnosed with gonorrhea. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 74 participants. Data were collected through structured questionnaires assessing five variables: knowledge of gonorrhea, family support, perceived stigma, self-efficacy, and treatment adherence. Univariate analysis using descriptive statistics was performed to summarize demographic characteristics and key variables. Chi-square tests were used to determine the association between predictor variables and treatment adherence. Results: The findings showed that 86.5% of participants had good knowledge regarding gonorrhea, while 56.6% reported insufficient family support. Most respondents (81.1%) did not experience perceived stigma, and 64.9% reported high self-efficacy. Overall, 64.9% of participants adhered to their treatment regimen. Bivariate analysis revealed significant associations between treatment adherence and knowledge (p = 0.007; OR = 6.111), family support (p = 0.008; OR = 4.821), perceived stigma (p = 0.001; OR = 7.571), and self-efficacy (p = 0.001; OR = 7.200). Conclusion: The results underscore the importance of psychosocial factors in enhancing medication adherence. Targeted interventions addressing knowledge, family support, stigma, and self-efficacy are essential to improving treatment outcomes and reducing gonorrhea transmission.

Profile of Alopecia Areata in Children at Prof. Dr. I.G.N.G. Ngoerah General Hospital, Bali, 2021-2023

Natalia Jennifer Handika — 2025-07-31

Background: The prevalence of alopecia areata in childhood is increasing yearly. Alopecia areata is often seen in daily practice among our patients, studies related to this disease are still limited and must be updated. This study aims to describe the clinical characteristics of pediatric patients diagnosed with alopecia areata at Prof. Dr. I.G.N.G. Ngoerah General Hospital Denpasar from 2021 to 2023. Purpose: This study is expected to be used for decision-making related to the management of alopecia areata in children. Method: This study is a quantitative descriptive study. The data used is secondary data from medical records with a cross-sectional design. The sample includes pediatric patients diagnosed with alopecia areata at Prof. Dr. I.G.N.G. Ngoerah General Hospital Denpasar from January 2021 to November 2023. Results: This study involved 18 patients with an average age of 10.33 ± 4.85 years. In 2021, there were 5 patients; in 2022, there were 6 patients; and in 2023, there were 7 patients. The genders of girls and boys were the same, with 9 patients for each. Hair loss is the most common clinical symptom, with a percentage of 100%. The highest onset occurs between 1–6 months at 44.44%. The most common dermoscopic findings is a black dot, which accounts for 38.89%. Conclusion: Alopecia in childhood is different from alopecia in adults. The clinical picture in children can vary, and sometimes with nail involvement. Children with alopecia areata need further evaluation for other comorbidities.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases Determinant among Online Sex Workers in Indonesia

Gabby Gabriela Ginting — 2025-07-31

Background: Since the beginning of Indonesia’s Reformation era, hundreds of localizations have been closed to control prostitution and human trafficking. However, these efforts have not had much impact because sex workers have now become sporadic with transactions through social media, making it harder to monitor and control. Purpose: This study aims to determine the determinants of sexually transmitted diseases in online sex workers. Methods: This study is a quantitative study with a cross-sectional design, and it was conducted online. The population in this study was online sex workers; their population is unknown. The sample in this study was selected using the snowball sampling technique. Number of samples used in this study was 593. The data in this study were collected using valid and reliable questionnaires filled out online by respondents. Data were analyzed using the chi-square test. Result: This study found that the majority of online sex workers were female (79.8%) and heterosexual (81.1%). However, only 56% of respondents always wear a condom, and 3.2% of respondents never wear one during their service. In addition, the majority of respondents knew their HIV status as HIV negative (92.7%) and had experienced at least one type of sexually transmitted infection (99.3%). Of all variables that were measured on respondents, only sexual orientation (p<0.001) was significantly associated with sexually transmitted diseases in general. Conclusion: STIs remain prevalent among online sex workers in Indonesia. Risky sexual behaviors, particularly inconsistent condom use, continue to play a major role in sustaining infection rates in this population.

Sexually Transmitted Infections among Human Immunodeficiency Virus Patients in a Tertiary Hospital in Surabaya, Indonesia

Jose Suryanegara — 2025-07-31

Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains a significant global public health concern. One of its primary modes of transmission is sexual contact, leading to frequent co-infection with other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Understanding the profile of STIs among HIV patients is essential for improving management and prevention strategies. Purpose: This study aims to describe the prevalence, types, and basic demographic characteristics (age and sex) of STIs among HIV patients treated at a tertiary referral hospital in Indonesia, to enhance understanding and optimize patient care. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia. Researchers analyzed the medical records of HIV patients who had coexisting STIs and visited the dermatology and venereology outpatient clinic between January 2021 and December 2022. Data collected included patient demographics, STI diagnoses, and clinical characteristics. Result: A total of 222 HIV patients with STIs were included, with a male predominance (85.6%) and a mean age of 28.64 years. The most common STIs were anogenital warts (47.7%), latent syphilis (18.0%), unspecified syphilis (10.8%), secondary syphilis (10.4%), and molluscum contagiosum (7.7%). The findings highlight the variations in STI prevalence based on sex and age distribution among HIV patients. Conclusion: This study points out that there are integrated management and prevention strategies targeting both HIV and STIs. Although our study did not specifically assess sexual orientation, previous research highlights men who have sex with men (MSM) as a key high-risk population.

The Effectiveness of Kombucha Coffee (Coffea canephora) Extract Antioxidant Moisturizer on UV-B Induced Skin Epidermal Thickness

Lifia Chandra — 2025-07-31

Background: The exposure to UV-B (280-320 nm) in Indonesia's tropical sunlight leads to the accumulation of free radicals, which in turn causes the formation of dry skin and thickening of the epidermis, a sign of skin photoaging. Topical intervention with moisturizers containing antioxidants is one approach to prevent further damage. The addition of kombucha coffee extract from fermented robusta coffee (Coffea canephora) with SCOBY (symbiotic cultures of bacteria and yeasts) can be a source of antioxidants. Purpose: To evaluate the effect of Coffea canephora extract as an antioxidant moisturizer in reducing epidermal thickness on mice’s back skin exposed to UV-B irradiation. Methods: This research is a true experimental design with a post-test only control design. The sample used in this research is thirty male white mice (Rattus norvegicus), which were divided into six groups and were UV-B irradiated for two weeks with total dosage of 980 mJ/cm².At the end of the treatment, skin samples were excised and stained histologically with Mollory Azan (MA) to evaluate the thickness of the epidermis. Data obtained were analyzed statically with SPSS. Result: The Kruskal-Wallis test demonstrated significant results (0.0001, p<0.05) across all groups, indicating the efficacy of the kombucha coffee extract antioxidant moisturizer in reducing epidermal thickness. Conclusion: The application of Coffea canephora extract antioxidant moisturizer provided photoprotection against UV-B induced hyperplasia skin epidermis with the concentration of 5% and 10% extract.

Immunodermatology: at a glance

Flora Ramona Sigit Prakoeswa — 2025-07-31

Background: Immunodermatology is a medical specialty specializing in detecting and treating skin conditions induced by a compromised immune system response. Each cellular element of the skin undergoes a unique developmental process and serves a specific function within the skin. Many disorders affecting epithelial organs, including the skin, mucous membranes, digestive tract, and respiratory tracts, require immunodermatological testing for diagnosis and treatment.
Immunodermatology, a field at the intersection of dermatology and immunology, continues to evolve, with new research being published annually. Purpose: This review aims to summarize the foundational principles of immunodermatology, current diagnostic approaches, and selected immune-mediated skin disorders. Review: There are numerous dermatological conditions related to immunodermatology. Advances in immunology and dermatology have enhanced our understanding of the skin as an active immune organ. Immunodermatology encompasses a wide range of diseases involving both innate and adaptive immunity. Despite growing research, many aspects remain under investigation. Conclusion: The skin’s immunological function could be viewed as a complex and multifaceted interplay between signal processing and defense reactions. Immunodermatology continues to expand with ongoing innovations in diagnostics and therapeutics, highlighting its importance in future clinical and research developments.

Electrosurgery and 5% Imiquimod Cream as a Combination Therapy for Perianal Condyloma Acuminata in a HIV Patient

Lita Setyowatie — 2025-07-31

Background: Condyloma acuminata (CA) is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection. It is characterized by single or multiple lesions in the anogenital area accompanied by itching, discharge, or bleeding. CA in HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) - positive patients can experience a low response to various therapeutic modalities, which may lead to consideration of choosing combination therapy to increase the effectiveness of therapy. Case: We report a case in a twenty-one-year old male with multiple warts on the perianal area. Within four months, the warts had covered the perianal area, with hemorrhoids emerging as complications. The patient had trichloroacetic acid treatment three times but did not respond. The patient is male who have sex with male, and there has been a history of multisexual partners. The diagnosis was made by clinical and histopathological examinations. The patient is HIV-positive and has been receiving antiretrovirals regularly. He got a combination therapy of electrosurgery and 5% imiquimod cream for 9 weeks and showed excellent results. Discussion: Standard topical medication is an effective treatment for condyloma acuminata, but infiltrative and recurrent lesions often require ablative and surgical treatment. Conclusion: Electrosurgery in combination with imiquimod proved to be effective and shortening the treatment regimen in the treatment of perianal CA.

Phototherapy for Treating Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria

Zilpa Widyastuti — 2025-07-31

Background: Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is a disease characterized by the onset of wheals, angioedema and/or both for more than 6 weeks. The clinical characteristics of CSU include wheals and flares that are erythematous or skin- colored. The most frequently used medical therapy is second-generation H1 antihistamines followed by first-generation H1 antihistamines. CSU is currently treated with phototherapy utilizing narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB). Case: A 36-year-old woman presented to the Dermatology and Venereology Outpatient Clinic of DR. Moewardi Hospital, Surakarta, with itchy reddish bumps all over her body since 6 months ago. A dermatology examination obtained multiple erythematous-based urticaria varying in size on her anterior and posterior trunks. We treated this patient with a combination of antihistamines and NB-UVB phototherapy at 200 mJ/cm² weekly for a month. Significant clinical improvement was observed at week 4 of therapy. Discussion: In the treatment of chronic spontaneous urticaria, NB-UVB phototherapy serves as an adjuvant therapy. It acts as a suppressor of the systemic immune response which reduces the release of histamines and pro-inflammatory mediators, prevents mast cell apoptosis in the dermis, and regulates Th1 as well as Th2. The dose may start at 200 mJ/cm2 then increase by 10-20% for each visit. Conclusion: The combination of antihistamines and NB-UVB has a significant effect on treating chronic spontaneous urticaria.