Kavana K.1, Sharath Kumar B.C.2
BACKGROUND
“Skin is a mirror of internal diseases”. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic
disorder that needs considerations of many different specialities but the
importance of dermatologist’s knowledge has not drawn much attention. As a
result, we intend to study various cutaneous manifestation of diabetes mellitus.
Prior to diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, patient may present with cutaneous
manifestation. Thus, it can help in early diagnosis, management and prevention
of complication and help in improvement of quality of life.
METHODS
This is a descriptive cross-sectional study. A total of 500 diabetic patients with
cutaneous manifestations, who attended skin outpatient department (OPD) at
Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences Hospital and Research Centre,
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, were evaluated. Detailed history was taken along
with physical and mucocutaneous examination. Cutaneous manifestations, general
description of diabetes mellitus like duration, type, and drug history as well as the
demographic data were collected and analysed using descriptive statistics.
RESULTS
Among a total of 500 diabetes mellitus subjects, the most common cutaneous
manifestations were infections (35 %) followed by pruritus (11 %). Among
infections, tinea infections (48.29 %) were the most common followed by
intertrigo (21 %).
CONCLUSIONS
The ignorance of skin manifestations in diabetes or improper treatment may
worsen the condition. Early detection and treatment of common skin
manifestations in diabetes will prevent further complications especially in cases of
extensive tinea corporis, pruritus, psoriasis, lichen planus, macro and micro
angiopathies, trophic ulcers etc.
