Clinical and management profile of dermatoses in geriatric population of North Kashmir: An observational study

• Author Details:   
• Parvaiz Anwar Rather
• Rabiya Bashir

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Background: Dermatoses in the geriatric population are an emerging concern due to increasing life expectancy and resultant elderly population. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence, types, co-morbidities, quality of life impact, and management of dermatoses in the geriatric age group in a hospital setting in this part of North India.

Materials and Methods: A total of 500 geriatric patients aged 60-92 years (mean age 68.7) were examined over one year. Data were collected on demographics, types of dermatoses, co-morbidities, quality of life using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), and treatments administered.

Results: The study included 290 males and 210 females. A total of 710 dermatoses were identified. Pruritus and xerosis together affected 38%, with xerosis in 22% of patients. Infectious dermatoses and infestations were found in 32% of patients, with fungal infections being the most common (14%). Eczematous dermatoses were present in 26% of patients, with seborrheic dermatitis (10%) being the most prevalent. Papulosquamous disorders were seen in 14%, including psoriasis (8%) and lichen planus (6%). Benign lesions, pigmentary disorders and photo-dermatoses were found respectively in 12%, 10% and 6% patients, whereas autoimmune bullous dermatosis and malignant lesions were found in 2% each. Co-morbidities included hypertension and diabetes mellitus, found respectively in 40% and 30% patients. DLQI indicated moderate to severe impact on quality of life in 54% of patients.

Conclusion: This study highlights the diverse dermatological conditions in the geriatric population and underscores the need for tailored dermatological care to improve the quality of life in this age group.