Prioritising ageing skin in venous care: a qualitative study of geriatric physicians’ perspectives
摘要
Venous stasis dermatitis represents a prevalent dermatological manifestation of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) that disproportionately affects older adults, yet limited data exist on how geriatric physicians approach its management. This national survey, distributed via the Irish Gerontological Society, explored current clinical practices among geriatricians in the assessment and treatment of venous disease. Forty-eight responses were received, comprising 31 Consultant Geriatricians and 17 Specialist Registrars. Most respondents frequently examined the lower limbs and recognised venous manifestations such as eczema, lymphoedema and haemosiderin deposition. However, fewer than one in eight routinely recommended compression therapy despite robust evidence supporting its efficacy (Yosipovitch et al. in Am J Clin Dermatol 24:275–286, 2023). Reported barriers included impaired mobility, fall risk and limited access to wound-care resources. The findings reveal heterogeneous practice patterns, therapeutic uncertainty and underutilisation of compression strategies. Strengthened interdisciplinary collaboration and targeted educational initiatives are warranted to optimise evidence-based venous care for ageing populations.