[ XXXX in Tunisia: epidemiologic and clinical study].

@entity1 @entity75 @entity1109 @entity370 @entity378
BACKGROUND: The epidemiologic study of @entity370 is problematic and differing incidences across the world are reported. In Tunisia, the incidence of this affection is yet unknown. This is at least attributable to the lack of large series and the overshadowing presence of @entity378 . AIM: To determine presenting signs, symptoms and investigations particularities. METHODS: We report a retrospective series @entity1 with @entity370 followed up in the Rabta university hospital between 1991 and 2005 and try to determine presenting signs, symptoms and investigations particularities. RESULTS: 131 @entity1 (79 @entity1 and 52 @entity1 ) with a median age of 47    14 years were reviewed. They were symptomatic in 95 % of cases. @entity1109 were present at onset in 56.8 %, respiratory symptoms in 48.6 % and general symptoms in 41.6 %. Thoracic presentation was observed in 81.3%. Chest X-ray changes and tomodensitometry showed that type II and III were predominant. Lung function was disturbed in 58.5% of the cases. Extrathoracic involvement, observed in 89.3 % of the cases, was largely dominated by cutaneous lesions. @entity75 provided diagnosis in 66.6%. CONCLUSION: The relative high frequency of dermatological lesions suggests genetic or even environmental predisposition to develop @entity370 such as sunlight exposition.
