Xerosis and pruritus in the elderly: recognition and management

Xerosis (dry skin) is characterized by pruritic, dry, cracked and fissured skin. Dry skin may be diagnosed as xerosis, eczema craquelé, dyshidrotic eczema, or asteatotic eczema. Two of the most common dermatologic problems found in nursing home residents are xerosis and pruitus. This article focuses on the recognition and treatment of these conditions, and stresses the importance of comprehensive treatment for these conditions as a preventative against stasis dermatitis and ulcer formation.