A Clinical Study of Geriatric Dermatoses at a Tertiary Care Center in South India

The study assessed 200 elderly patients (128 males, 72 females) aged 60 and above from rural areas attending a Dermatology OPD in South India over six months. The most common conditions were wrinkling (>95%), xerosis (42.5%), generalized pruritus (28%), eczematous skin conditions (21%), and psoriasis (8.5%). Fungal infections were the most prevalent (7.5%), followed by viral infections like herpes zoster (4%), pyoderma (3.5%), and scabies (2.5%). Benign tumors were seen in 28% of cases, and nail changes in 45%. The study highlights the need for health education on skin care, including the use of emollients, foot care, hygiene, sun protection, and early diagnosis and management to improve the quality of life in the elderly.