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Prospective aetiological study of diaper dermatitis in the elderly
1Service de Gérontologie V et Consultation de Dermatologie, Hôpital Charles Foix, 7 avenue de la République, 94205 Ivry sur Seine, France.
The British Journal of Dermatology
|October 13, 2006
Summary
Diaper dermatitis (DD) in the elderly is often caused by fungal infections and irritant dermatitis. Topical antifungal treatments combined with emollients are effective first-line therapies for managing DD in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Diaper dermatitis (DD) in the elderly has poorly understood causes, leading to empirical treatment approaches.
- Identifying the specific etiologies of DD in geriatric populations is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To ascertain the primary causes of diaper dermatitis in elderly individuals.
- To assess the therapeutic effectiveness of antifungal treatments for DD in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of elderly patients with DD underwent clinical assessment, microbial cultures, patch testing, and skin biopsies.
- Treatment involved a 1-month course of topical antifungal cream, followed by oral fluconazole if necessary.
Main Results:
- Among 46 included patients (mean age 85), causes were identified in 38: candidiasis (63%), irritant dermatitis (16%), eczema (11%), and psoriasis (11%).
- After two months, 73% of patients achieved complete resolution of DD, with an additional 14% showing improvement.
Conclusions:
- Fungal infections (mycoses) and irritant dermatitis represent the predominant causes of DD in the elderly.
- Emollient skincare and topical antifungal agents are recommended as initial therapeutic strategies for elderly patients with diaper dermatitis.
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