Common benign melanocytic and non-melanocytic skin tumors among the elderly. Results of the Graz Study on Health & Aging (GSHA)

Background and objectives: Benign skin tumors are the most common skin findings and contribute to the major reasons for consulting a dermatologist. However, the frequency of benign skin tumors concerning different body areas and their relationship with sun-related behavior have not been sufficiently characterized. We aimed to improve knowledge about the anatomic distribution of the most frequently occurring benign skin tumors among a healthy predominant elderly population. Furthermore, we investigated associations with sun-related habits. Methods: In total, 100 participants, 37 men, and 63 women (mean age: 67.2 years; range: 46-86 years) were enrolled in the Graz Study on Health & Aging (GSHA) cohort. Full body images were investigated for melanocytic nevi, seborrheic keratoses, hemangiomas, dermatofibromas, and lentigines. Information on the phenotypic trait, sun exposure, use of sun-protective measures, and history of sunburns was collected in a questionnaire. Results: Common melanocytic nevi were the most frequently encountered skin lesions. Male sex was associated with multiple common nevi on the abdomen and the presence of atypical nevi. High sun exposure in central European latitudes during adolescence was positively associated with multiple common nevi on the total body. Multiple common nevi and atypical nevi on the back correlated with frequent use of sunscreens with SPF during young adulthood and adolescence, respectively. Conclusion: Our study adds new knowledge about the most frequently occurring benign skin tumors, considering all visible body areas. This research may serve as a reference basis for following epidemiological studies.