Diabetic dermopathy
Diabetic Dermopathy
Diabetic dermopathy (/daɪəˈbɛtɪk dɜːrˈmɒpəθi/), also known as shin spots or pigmented pretibial patches, is a skin condition usually found on the lower legs of people with diabetes mellitus. It is the most common dermatologic manifestation of the disease, affecting up to 50% of diabetic patients.
Etymology
The term "diabetic dermopathy" is derived from the Greek words diabetes (διαβήτης) meaning "siphon", derma (δέρμα) meaning "skin", and pathos (πάθος) meaning "suffering" or "disease".
Symptoms
Diabetic dermopathy presents as small, round, brown atrophic skin lesions that occur on the shins. The lesions may also appear on the thighs, forearms, sides of the feet, and on the scalp. They are usually asymptomatic and do not require treatment.
Causes
The exact cause of diabetic dermopathy is unknown, but it is believed to be related to the microangiopathy that occurs in patients with poorly controlled diabetes. Other factors that may contribute to the development of the condition include trauma, vascular and metabolic factors, and changes in the collagen and elastin in the skin.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of diabetic dermopathy is usually made based on the characteristic appearance of the lesions and the patient's medical history. A skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.
Treatment
There is no specific treatment for diabetic dermopathy. The lesions usually resolve spontaneously over time, but may recur. Management of the patient's diabetes and avoidance of trauma to the skin may help to prevent the development of new lesions.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Diabetic dermopathy
- Wikipedia's article - Diabetic dermopathy
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