Publication:

A clinico-epidemiological study of mucocutaneous disorders in geriatric patients

Background The study was done to determine clinical patterns and frequency of mucocutaneous manifestations in the elderly. Objectives to study the demographic profile of geriatric patients attending the dermatology outpatient department, JJM medical college, Davanagere and to study the clinical pattern of various mucocutaneous disorders in the geriatric population.

Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on geriatric patients. A detailed history and mucocutaneous examinations were done. Skin changes were classified into physiological and pathological changes.

Results Out of 409 patients, 69.4% were males and 30.6% were females. The age range was from 60 to 74 years, with the mean age being 73.34±6.230 years. Pruritus was the most common complaint. Hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), physiological changes, and wrinkling were the associated findings.

Conclusions This study gives an understanding of the pattern of geriatric dermatoses that aid in early diagnosis and management.