Skin Disorders
March 2012
in “
Pathy's Principles and Practice of Geriatric Medicine
”
TLDR Older adults often have skin problems due to aging, and treating these conditions requires attention to both physical and mental health.
The document from March 12, 2012, highlights the prevalence of skin disorders in the elderly, noting the effects of aging on skin health and the importance of geriatric dermatology. It describes age-related skin changes that lead to conditions like decubitus ulcers, eczematous dermatitis, and fungal infections, and discusses their treatment and prevention. The text also addresses the psychological impact of skin disorders, including delusions of parasitosis, and the necessity of considering mental health in treatment plans. Additionally, it outlines the management of bacterial, parasitic, and viral skin infections, nutritional deficiencies, vascular disorders, and tumors, including benign and malignant types. Hair loss conditions such as androgenetic alopecia, cicatricial alopecia, and alopecia areata are identified as significant concerns, with the document emphasizing a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment that accounts for the patient's overall health and underlying causes.