Abstract

AGE ASSOCIATED SKIN DISEASES IN ELDERLY POPULATION

Julie Raju*, Rani Manju, Pheba Susan Thomas and Santhosh M. Mathews

ABSTRACT

The International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS), a global, not-for-profit organization representing 157 dermatological societies worldwide, has identified the consequences of skin aging as one of the most important grand challenges in global skin health. Reduced functional capacity and increased susceptibility of the skin with development of dermatoses such as dry skin, itching, ulcers, dyspigmentation, wrinkles, fungal infections, as well as benign and malignant tumors are the most common skin conditions in aged populations worldwide. Although skin problems might sometimes seem minor compared with other major systemic diseases frequently seen in this age group, accurate diagnosis and proper management help reduce the morbidity and positively influence their life quality. Because of various senile changes in skin, elderly people are predisposed to certain dermatological disorders. The most common cutaneous diseases that will be characterized in this article are broadly categorized into inflammatory dermatoses, cutaneous infections, vascular disorders, and neoplasms. Management of these cutaneous diseases in elderly population requires particular attention to their inherent physical and physiological weaknesses and associated complicated problems.

Keywords: Elderly, Dermatology, Skin disease, Infections.