Rosacea : a review of family history and community of origin

Fagan, Donna M. (2001) Rosacea : a review of family history and community of origin. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

This descriptive study was conducted utilizing a cohort of diagnosed rosacea patients from a group dermatologists' clinic serving a population in Eastern Newfoundland. The etiology of rosacea is unknown, therefore, this study was conducted to answer two primary questions: (1) is there a family history of rosacea and (2) can rosacea be traced to a particular ancestral community of origin for the population under study? A literature review reveals that little has been documented regarding family history and ethnicity. Additional data was concurrently collected including basic demographics, frequency and severity of triggers, exposure to sun, quality of life and the occurrence of other skin conditions. -- One hundred and fifty-two patients with rosacea were drawn from new or returning patients to the dermatology practice during the spring, summer and fall of 2000. As each patient checked in with the receptionist s/he was asked to participate in this research by completing a self-administered 106 question survey. -- Results revealed a strong family history of rosacea in 67% of the cases. There emerged a community or region of origin in a particular area of the catchment area. The origins of the majority of the settlers to Conception Bay North and Trinity Bay South are from the southwest area of England. The population is of fair skin with dark and light brown hair and blue eyes. The average age of diagnosis is in the fifth decade of life. Occupational work of the respondent group was conducted primarily indoors, sun screen use was absent or insignificant in childhood and adolescence. The occurrence of other skin conditions was present in one quarter of the cases. The frequency and severity of triggers are comparable to previously reported data. -- The results point to a strong familial relationship, leading to the conclusion that genetic etiology is probable. This information together with knowledge of ancestral community of origin provides an area to begin genetic research.

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