Diabetes: Dermatological Complications

Diabetes: Dermatological Complications

Acanthosis nigricanis:

A darkening and thickening in the folds of the skin; typically found on neck, armpit, groin.

  • Described as brown velvety feeling patches
  • Benign condition
  • Mostly found on overweight patients
  • May be reduced by weight loss and glucose control

Onychomyosis:

Fungal infection of the nails

  • Thickening, flaking, splitting of the nails
  • Yellowing of the nails
  • Require antifungal treatment for 12 weeks or longer

Diabetic Foot Ulcer:

Breakdown of skin due to decreased blood perfusion

  • Superficial wound that may extend down to the bone
  • Most common reason for hospitalization among diabetic patients
  • Is the leading cause of non traumatic foot amputation
  • Prevention is key
  • Smoking, high blood sugar, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol increases risk

Diabetic Dermopathy:

Are spots on the skin due to changes in small blood vessels cause leakage of blood products into surrounding tissue

  • Most often found on the shins, which is why they are sometimes called shin spots
  • Associated with standing for long periods of time and blood poor glucose control
  • Typically heal/ improve on their own with good  blood glucose control