Characteristics of the ageing skin, xerosis cutis and its complications

People in the developed countries are living longer. Geriatric dermatology is playing an increasingly important role as chances of developing skin-related problems increase with their ageing. Skin ageing is induced by two main processes: intrinsic and extrinsic. Extrinsic ageing is caused by environmental factors such as sun exposure, smoking, alcohol consumption, air pollution, and poor nutrition. Intrinsic ageing reflects the genetic background and depends on time. The aged skin is characterised by the appearance of dryness, atrophy, wrinkles, pigmented lesions, patchy hypopigmentation, and elastosis. This article provides an overview of skin ageing processes and common conditions found in the elderly persons such as xerosis, pruritus, and eczema.

Dermatological conditions in older adults: clinical overview

The skin is one of the most important parts of the human body. It protects the underlying tissue from injury and is a valuable part of the homeostatic processes. Older people have more frail and aged skin, which must be treated correctly to avoid skin breaks, especially where there are any dermatological conditions present. Not only this, but where there is a wound, the dressing must be chosen and applied carefully, to treat the condition but also to avoid damage when it comes to removing the dressing, due to the risk of the skin tearing, which can be a common problem in older adults. Further, the thinner, drier skin of older people has moisture and barrier changes that lead to a higher susceptibility to eczema. This article provides an overview of the aetiological, diagnostic and treatment aspects of geriatric dermatology, with a focus on the common allergic skin conditions (dermatitis) seen in older adults.

Dermatological conditions in older adults: clinical overview

The skin is one of the most important parts of the human body. It protects the underlying tissue from injury and is a valuable part of the homeostatic processes. The skin is delicate, and, therefore, dermatological intervention is an important part of patient care in the case of skin problems. Older people have more frail and aged skin, which must be treated correctly to avoid skin breaks, especially where there are any dermatological conditions present. Not only this, but where there is a wound, the dressing must be chosen and applied carefully, to treat the condition but also to avoid damage when it comes to removing the dressing, due to the risk of the skin tearing, which can be a common problem in older adults. Further, the thinner, drier skin of older people has moisture and barrier changes that lead to a higher susceptibility to eczema. This article provides an overview of the aetiological, diagnostic and treatment aspects of geriatric dermatology, with a focus on the common allergic skin conditions (dermatitis) seen in older adults.