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Obesity and the skin.
A R Shipman1, G W M Millington
1Department of Dermatology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich NR4 7UY, UK.
The British Journal of Dermatology
|May 14, 2011
Summary
Obesity is a major global health concern linked to various health issues, including skin conditions. This review covers common and rare dermatological problems associated with excess body weight and its treatments.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Public Health
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Obesity is a significant global health challenge with widespread implications.
- Excess body weight is implicated in carcinogenesis and the pathogenesis of metabolic, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal disorders.
- Obesity presents numerous cutaneous manifestations, impacting patient health and quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the cutaneous features associated with obesity.
- To discuss common and rare dermatological conditions linked to excess body weight.
- To explore the dermatological side-effects of obesity interventions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on obesity and dermatological conditions.
- Analysis of common skin issues in obese individuals.
- Examination of rarer skin disorders and inflammatory dermatoses in obesity.
- Review of dermatological side-effects of obesity treatments.
Main Results:
- Common cutaneous features include striae distensae, plantar hyperkeratosis, and increased susceptibility to skin infections.
- Obesity is associated with impaired wound healing, malignant melanoma risk, and inflammatory dermatoses like psoriasis.
- Obesity management strategies, including medications and surgery, can cause dermatological side-effects.
Conclusions:
- Obesity is linked to a spectrum of dermatological conditions, ranging from common to rare.
- Understanding these cutaneous manifestations is crucial for comprehensive obesity management.
- Healthcare providers must consider potential skin issues and treatment side-effects in obese patients.
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