Pigmentation Disorders in the Elderly

Drugs Aging. 2019 Mar;36(3):235-245. doi: 10.1007/s40266-018-00633-w.

Abstract

Aging skin is subject to morphological change due to both intrinsic (skin tone, genetics, endogenous hormones) and extrinsic (chronic sun exposure, medications, exogenous pigments) factors. The broad spectrum of transformation includes both hypo- and hyperpigmentation. Although cutaneous pigmentary disorders are common in younger individuals, certain disorders are more prevalent in the geriatric population. This article reviews the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical appearance, treatment, and prognosis of pigmentary lesions that are predominant in the elderly.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyperpigmentation / diagnosis
  • Hyperpigmentation / epidemiology
  • Hyperpigmentation / therapy
  • Hypopigmentation / diagnosis
  • Hypopigmentation / epidemiology
  • Hypopigmentation / therapy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pigmentation Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Pigmentation Disorders / epidemiology
  • Pigmentation Disorders / therapy*