DB7

Age-related changes in the skin

Age-related changes in the skin, oxidative stress, photodamage, heritable traits, and illnesses originating in other organ systems are manifested on the skin and often complicate the diagnostic and therapeutic picture. Chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus and HIV compound the problems in diagnosing and treating geriatric dermatologic diseases. The nurse practitioner should be familiar with how to determine if a cutaneous manifestation is normal aging or a sign of something more ominous.

Select one from the topic list below and discuss the etiology, prevalence, presentation, screening protocols, diagnostic workup and management strategies including treatment options, medications, and sequelae with follow up care.

Seborrheic keratosis, actinic keratosis, melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, decubitus ulcers, pruritus/xerosis, eczematous dermatitis, psychogenic dermatitides, infections of the skin, purpura, vascular compromise, chronic venous insufficiency, and bullous pemphigoid.