Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 15, 2026
12:23
Granulocyte-dependent Autoantibody-induced Skin Blistering
Published on: October 12, 2012
Cutaneous signs of selected systemic diseases
N I Kihiczak1, C B Leevy, M M Krysicki
1Dermatology, New Jersey Medical School, Newark 07103-2714, USA.
Journal of Medicine
|October 9, 1999
Summary
This study reviews three skin conditions that signal internal diseases: acanthosis nigricans, angiokeratomas linked to hepatorenal failure, and mast cell disease with systemic involvement.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Internal Medicine
- Pathology
Background:
- Cutaneous manifestations frequently serve as indicators of underlying systemic diseases.
- Recognizing these skin signs aids in early diagnosis and management of internal conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore three distinct cutaneous markers associated with systemic diseases.
- To highlight the diagnostic significance of acanthosis nigricans, cutaneous angiokeratomas, and mast cell disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and case analysis.
- Discussion of the clinical presentation and pathological basis of each marker.
- Correlation of dermatological findings with systemic involvement.
Main Results:
- Acanthosis nigricans is a well-established marker for various systemic conditions.
- Cutaneous angiokeratomas are associated with specific genetic disorders (e.g., Fabry's disease) and can present as a reactive pattern in hepatorenal failure.
- Mast cell disease manifests in diverse forms, often indicating widespread systemic involvement.
Conclusions:
- Cutaneous markers provide valuable insights into systemic health.
- Early identification of these dermatological signs is crucial for timely medical intervention.
- Further research into the mechanisms linking skin changes to systemic disease is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
01:14Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives
The first thing a clinician sees is the skin, so the examination of the skin should be part of any thorough physical examination. Most skin disorders are relatively benign, but a few, including melanomas, can be fatal if untreated. A couple of the more noticeable disorders, albinism and vitiligo, affect the appearance of the skin and its accessory organs.
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
01:23Skin Diseases and Disorders
Skin is the first line of defense and encounters a variety of microbes. Some pathogenic strains are often the cause of a broad range of infections of the skin and other body systems. These conditions can affect people of all ages and may have different causes, including genetic factors, infections, autoimmune reactions, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices.
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
01:30Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when there is an abnormal growth of skin cells, usually triggered by damage to the DNA within the skin cells. It is primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, and its incidence continues to rise.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
01:29Assessment of the Cardiovascular System II: Inspection
Inspection is the initial step in assessing the cardiovascular system. It involves a detailed visual examination that provides crucial information about a patient's circulatory and cardiac health. This systematic process, conducted from head to toe, helps identify signs of cardiovascular conditions by observing physical appearance, skin and mucous membranes, jugular and carotid pulsations, chest symmetry, and the condition of the extremities.
Head and Neck
Head and Neck
01:25Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis
Endocarditis can present various clinical features depending on the causative organism and the patient's underlying health conditions. Initially, the clinical features of infective endocarditis develop gradually, presenting with nonspecific symptoms that can be easily mistaken for other illnesses.General SymptomsEarly symptoms of infective endocarditis are fever, chills, weakness, malaise, fatigue, and weight loss. These symptoms reflect the systemic nature of the infection and the body's...
01:24Chronic Kidney Disease II: Clinical Manifestations
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) progressively impairs multiple body systems due to the accumulation of uremic toxins, which disrupt cellular functions across various organs.Neurologic symptomsNeurologic symptoms often arise early in CKD, as uremic toxin buildup drives changes in cognitive and motor functions. Patients frequently experience fatigue, headache, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and, in severe cases, seizures. Peripheral neuropathy commonly manifests as burning sensations in the...