Geriatric dermatology

Abstract

Background: With an ageing society the incidences of skin diseases increase. Objective: The most important skin diseases in geriatric patients are discussed. Material and methods: A literature search was conducted using the PubMed database and standard dermatological textbooks. Results: Skin diseases in geriatric patients are often more susceptible to external influences and can be affected by visceral diseases. Due to a delayed diagnosis, malignant skin diseases in geriatric patients are first diagnosed at a higher stage. Conclusion: Physiological skin changes are to be treated with appropriate care. In the case of unclear skin changes, a timely dermatological check-up is to be done.