Insulin resistance and skin diseases

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Diseases

Background:

• Clinicians frequently encounter skin diseases but distinguishing dermatologic from systemic conditions can be challenging.
• Cutaneous manifestations may indicate underlying internal health issues.
• Insulin plays a key role in skin physiology and homeostasis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review principal cutaneous conditions associated with metabolic alterations.
• To focus on the relationship between insulin resistance (IR) and various skin diseases.
• To analyze strongly IR-associated conditions and emerging scenarios.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies linking metabolic alterations and skin conditions.
• Focus on the role of insulin resistance in dermatologic manifestations.
• Analysis of established and potential IR-associated skin diseases.

Main Results:

• Insulin resistance is linked to several skin conditions, including acanthosis nigricans, acne, and psoriasis.
• Emerging evidence suggests associations between IR and hidradenitis suppurativa, androgenetic alopecia, and hirsutism.
• Skin conditions can serve as indicators of metabolic health and insulin resistance.

Conclusions:

• Dermatologic manifestations can be crucial indicators of underlying metabolic disturbances, particularly insulin resistance.
• Understanding the link between IR and skin diseases aids in comprehensive patient assessment and management.
• Further research into emerging conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa and alopecia in the context of IR is warranted.