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Cutaneous manifestations in diabetes mellitus – a north indian study

Authors:Tushyata Arora
Int J Biol Med Res. 2016; 7(2): 5506-5509  |  PDF File

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common endocrine disorder which affects every organ system and the skin is no exception. Almost all patients of diabetes develop these cutaneous manifestations at some point of time.Objectives: Our purpose was to study the pattern of cutaneous manifestations in diabetes mellitus and their prevalence in controlled and uncontrolled diabetes. Materials and methods: Two hundred patients of diabetes mellitus that consecutively attended the outpatient department of dermatology or were admitted in the wards for any reason, having diabetes with skin complaints were included in the study. Results: The most frequent skin condition observed was infections, among which the most common were fungal infections (33.5%) followed by bacterial infections (12.5%). Among the non infectious skin lesions, acrochordons (8.5%) and acanthosis nigricans (8%) were the most frequently seen. Most of the diseases were more frequently seen in uncontrolled than in controlled diabetes. In 11% of patients, skin lesions preceded the diagnosis of diabetes. Most of the patients came with a single cutaneous manifestation (89%), but 11% of patients came with multiple skin conditions. Conclusion: Skin involvement is an important part of clinical manifestations of diabetes mellitus and may be the first sign of undiagnosed diabetes or uncontrolled metabolic state. Recognition of these specific and non specific cutaneous markers enables earlier diagnosis and treatment, which may ultimately improve the overall prognosis.