Journal of Marine Medical Society (Jan 2018)
Frequency and associated factors of instrument-specific dermatoses among musicians in a military band: A cross-sectional study
Abstract
Background and Aim: Continual contact with musical instruments may cause distinctive skin conditions among musicians. The site and degree of contact with the instrument may determine the type of presentation, further influenced by the amount of time spent in training. These conditions may be severe enough to even compromise musicians' careers. Since data on the subject are lacking in India, a study was conducted to assess the frequency and factors associated with the occurrence of instrument-related skin disorders among musicians in a military band. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. A universal sample comprising all the members of a military band was included. A total of 162 musicians were evaluated using a questionnaire that included questions related to age, instrument played, current skin disorders, and the impact of skin symptoms on music making. Dermatological examination was done for all the participants. Statistical Analysis Used: Mean, median, and frequencies; Pearson's Chi-square test. Results: Of 162 musicians, 49 (30.2%) had at least one skin disease not correlated with instrument playing. Instrument-specific dermatoses were found in 55 (34%) of the 162 musicians and correlated with years of experience and the time spent in musical activity. Conclusions: Wind instrumentalists had the highest risk of developing skin problems. The occurrence of the tear trough deformity and lip dyschromia correlated significantly with the playing of a wind instrument. The impact of vibratory stress of wind instruments on the facial tissues needs further inquiry. Although not life-threatening, instrument-specific dermatoses may lead to impaired performance, occupational risk, and cosmetic disfigurement.
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