Study of Geriatric Dermatoses in a Tertiary Care Hospital in North India – An Observational Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND Geriatric dermatoses are a common group of conditions seen frequently in the daily out-patient clinic. The process of ageing plays an important role in the physiological and pathological changes of the skin in old age. With the presence of long-term systemic comorbidities, the incidence of pathological conditions also increases. Only a few studies have been conducted in India about geriatric dermatoses. We wanted to study the prevalence of physiological and pathological skin changes in the elderly population. METHODS It was a cross sectional observational study and 300 patients aged more than 60 years attending the outpatient clinic of dermatology at UPUMS, Saifai were enrolled in the study. Detailed history of cutaneous complaints, past and present medical conditions was taken. Complete general physical and dermatological examination was done. The physiological and pathological skin changes in the cases were noted. RESULTS Out of 300 patients, 70.67 % were males and 29.33 % were females. 72 % belonged to the age group of 60 - 69 years. 88.33 % complained about pruritus. Wrinkles and xerosis were the most common physiological cutaneous manifestations. Benign growths like seborrheic keratosis, dermatosis papulosa nigra, and acrochordons were observed in most of the patients. Eczema and fungal infections were the most common pathological conditions in the study. 25 % had pre-existing systemic conditions with diabetes and hypertension being the commonest. 88 % had greying of hair and 45.67 % had nail changes. CONCLUSIONS India is an ageing nation. In the elderly, both physiological and pathological skin changes are common. Geriatric dermatology is becoming an important aspect of dermatology. Our study helps in providing a better understanding about the patterns of geriatric dermatoses and emphasizes the need to focus on healthcare needs of the elderly. KEYWORDS Geriatric, Ageing, Eczema, Wrinkling, Xerosis