EVALUATION OF DERMATOLOGY CONSULTATIONS IN GERIATRIC POPULATION IN A TERTIARY CARE UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL: A RECORD-BASED CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Introduction: The aging population is increasing globally, with older adults experiencing distinct skin changes due to aging, comorbidities, and polypharmacy. This study aimed to identify dermatological problems in hospitalized elderly patients to guide healthcare strategies. Materials and Method: A cross-sectional study analyzed dermatology consultations for hospitalized adults at a university hospital between 2018 and 2022. Patients were categorized as geriatric ≥ 65 years or young adult < 65 years. Data on demographics, consultation departments, and dermatological diagnoses were extracted from electronic medical records and categorized into 24 groups. Statistical analyses were performed. Results: Of 7,430 consultations, 45.2% were for geriatric patients 55.7% women). Dermatology consultations were more frequent in geriatric patients (30.6%) than in young adults (11%). Fungal (19.6%) and bacterial (14.0%) infections were most common in geriatric patients, followed by eczematous dermatoses (10.6%) and ichthyosis (6.0%). Viral infections were significantly more frequent in young adults (13.3%). Sex differences were observed: fungal infections were more common in geriatric women (21.2%), while viral infections were more frequent in geriatric men (9.3%). Malignant and premalignant lesions (3.0%) and pruritus (4.9%) were also significantly higher in geriatric patients. Conditions such as ecchymosis and decubitus ulcers were more prevalent in elderly patients, whereas viral infections, drug eruptions, and urticaria were more frequent in young adults. Conclusion: Dermatological conditions, particularly infections, pruritus, and ichthyosis, were more common in elderly hospitalized patients. Hospitalization provides an opportunity for comprehensive dermatological evaluation. A holistic approach is essential to address neglected dermatological problems in the growing aging population. Keywords: Aged; Dermatology; Geriatrics; Skin Diseases.