Cutaneous alterations in diabetes mellitus.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Endocrinology
• Pathology

Background:

• Individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM) experience a higher incidence of dermatological issues.
• Cutaneous manifestations can be early indicators of DM, sometimes appearing years before diagnosis.
• Skin changes in DM stem from microcirculatory, nervous system, and collagen alterations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the molecular and anatomopathological changes in the skin associated with DM.
• To present the most significant and prevalent clinical skin manifestations observed in diabetic patients.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on dermatological manifestations of diabetes mellitus.
• Analysis of molecular and anatomopathological alterations in diabetic skin.
• Compilation and description of common clinical presentations.

Main Results:

• Common skin conditions in DM include acanthosis nigricans, necrobiosis lipoidica, diabetic dermopathy, scleredema, and granuloma anulare.
• Underlying mechanisms involve microvascular damage, neuropathy, and altered collagen structure.
• Skin findings can precede or coincide with DM diagnosis.

Conclusions:

• Skin manifestations are a crucial aspect of diabetes mellitus management.
• Understanding these cutaneous changes aids in early diagnosis and patient care.
• Further research into the molecular basis of diabetic dermatoses is warranted.