CUTANEOUS MANIFESTATIONS IN ENDOCRINAL DISORDERS- AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Anjum Momin1, Bhavesh Astik2

BACKGROUND Endocrinology is the term used for the study of glands, the hormones produced by them and their ultimate effect on target organs. These glands communicate with target organs through impulses (the nervous system), chemicals (hormones), chemical mediators (cytokines) and other molecules. Some skin disorders are due to direct effect of hormones or its imbalance, while some are associated with it, whereas, some skin manifestations are only part of general metabolic change. So, examination of cutaneous system should be routinely done in all endocrinal disorders. The objectives of our study were- to observe the prevalence of cutaneous manifestations in individuals having endocrinal disorders, to observe the pattern and type of cutaneous manifestations in patients having endocrinal disorders, and to observe the effect of endocrine disorders on existing skin conditions. METHODS 150 patients having endocrinal disorders were studied. Detailed history was noted, and physical examination was done in each patient. Patients were regularly followed up and findings were recorded in predesigned proforma. Investigations were done as needed, and patients were treated accordingly and referred to endocrinology department for further management of endocrine disorders. RESULTS Out of 150 patients, maximum number of patients (46) were having diabetes mellitus, followed by 37 patients having hypothyroidism. CONCLUSIONS Out of 150 patients, 113 patients (75.3%) showed some or other cutaneous manifestation. Maximum cutaneous changes were observed in diabetic patients (44/46). Infection was the commonest (21 patients) and all of them were diabetic. Dry skin was next to infection.

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