Senile Gluteal Dermatosis: Update on Etiopathogenesis, Diagnostic Criteria, and Management

Abstract

Senile gluteal dermatosis (SGD) is an underdiagnosed skin condition that mostly affects the elderly. It appears as hyperkeratotic or lichenoid papules or plaques over the gluteal area, unilaterally or bilaterally. The etiopathogenesis of this condition is not yet known, but it is considered to be caused by prolonged mechanical stress on the affected area leading to neovascularization and epidermal hyperplasia. SGD poses unique problems in diagnosis and management due to its clinical characteristics and histological findings matching other common conditions. Due to its lesser-known status, it is frequently misdiagnosed as lichen simplex chronicus, inverse psoriasis, or cutaneous amyloidosis, which results in a variable response to treatment. Lifestyle modifications aiming at reducing pressure at the affected site remain the mainstay of treatment, but some reports have shown better results with topical or systemic retinoids. SGD is underreported in the scientific literature and is still not mentioned significantly in textbooks. This review attempts to give a thorough overview of SGD regarding its clinical presentation, etiology, pathogenesis, dermoscopy, diagnostic standards, differential diagnoses, and accessible treatments. Healthcare practitioners can enhance early recognition and provide the right care for afflicted people by raising knowledge and understanding of this disorder.