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Diabetic Skin Changes

Common skin findings caused by diabetes mellitus; diabetic dermopathy, acanthosis nigricans, and other conditions.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dermatoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Diabetic Skin Changes?

Diabetes mellitus can cause numerous dermatological findings by affecting the microvascular, metabolic, and immune functions of the skin. Approximately two-thirds of patients develop diabetes-related skin findings at some point.

The most common conditions include acanthosis nigricans (velvety darkening in neck, armpits, and folded areas), diabetic dermopathy (pigmented atrophic lesions on the leg), necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum, diabetic bulla, scleredema, and skin infections (bacterial, fungal).

Skin findings can sometimes appear before diabetes is diagnosed; therefore clinical clues should not be missed. Good glycemic control and skin care are the cornerstones of treatment.

Symptoms

Velvety, darkened skin on neck and armpit (acanthosis nigricans)
Pigmented, atrophic spots on the front of the leg (diabetic dermopathy)
Yellowish, atrophic plaques (necrobiosis lipoidica)
Frequent recurrence of skin and nail fungal infections
Slowly healing wounds and diabetic foot ulcer
General dryness and pruritus of the skin
Skin tags (acrochordon)

Risk Factors

Long-standing and poorly controlled diabetes
Obesity and insulin resistance
Old age
Coexistence of microvascular complications (retinopathy, neuropathy)
Peripheral vascular disease
Excessive sweating and poor foot hygiene
Immune system suppression

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Newly developing dark velvety folded area lesions
  • Redness, ulcer, or foul-smelling discharge on the foot
  • Recurrent skin and nail fungal infections
  • Slowly healing or expanding leg wounds
  • Unexplained widespread itching

Treatment Methods

01
Tight glycemic control and HbA1c target
02
Regular skin examination and foot check
03
Intensive moisturization and wound care
04
Appropriate antifungal treatment for fungal infections
05
Multidisciplinary treatment for diabetic foot ulcer
06
Weight management and nutritional counseling

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dermatoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Dermatoloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.