CHARACTERIZATION OF AND EXPENDITURES ON HOSPITAL ADMISSIONS FOR SKIN AND SUBCUTANEOUS TISSUE INFECTIONS IN ALAGOAS, BRAZIL, 2016–2025

Abstract

Objective: To describe the epidemiological profile and hospital costs associated with hospitalizations for skin and subcutaneous tissue infections in Alagoas from 2016 to 2025. Method: A descriptive epidemiological study based on secondary data from the SUS Hospital Information System (SIH/SUS) and population estimates from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). Results: A total of 12,454 hospitalizations were recorded during the period, with a predominance of males (52.3%) and a high concentration in age groups over 40 (59.8%), including 34.8% aged 60 or older. Emergency admissions accounted for 92.8% of cases. Erysipelas (42.7%) and cellulitis (27.6%) were the most frequent diagnoses. The average length of hospital stay was 4 to 7 days (38.2%), and the ICU admission rate was 2.3%. Total hospitalization costs amounted to R$ 21,450,820.00, showing an upward trend over the decade. Conclusion: The epidemiological profile indicates a predominance of emergency admissions, particularly among older adults and adults with conditions manageable in primary care. The findings highlight a significant financial impact and the need to strengthen Primary Health Care to ensure early diagnosis and intervention.