Cutaneous problems in elderly diabetics: A population-based comparative cross-sectional survey
1Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Government Medical College, Thrissur, Kerala, India.
Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology
|September 21, 2016
Summary
Elderly diabetics in Kerala frequently experience skin issues like numbness, tingling, and acanthosis nigricans. These findings highlight the association between diabetes mellitus and specific dermatological conditions in older populations.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Endocrinology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Limited population-based research exists on the prevalence of cutaneous problems in individuals with diabetes mellitus.
- Understanding these associations is crucial for comprehensive patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and analyze skin problems associated with diabetes mellitus among elderly individuals residing in a rural village in Kerala.
- To compare the prevalence of dermatological conditions in elderly diabetics versus non-diabetics.
Main Methods:
- A population-based cross-sectional survey was conducted.
- Prevalence of skin problems was compared between 287 elderly diabetics (≥65 years) and 275 randomly selected elderly non-diabetics.
Main Results:
- Numbness, tingling, burning sensation of extremities, "prayer sign", finger pebbling, skin tags, stiff joints, and acanthosis nigricans were significantly more prevalent in diabetics.
- Conditions like ache in extremities, fungal infections (dermatophytosis, candidiasis), seborrheic keratoses, xerosis/ichthyosis, idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis, itching, and eczema showed similar frequency in both groups.
- Neurovascular, metabolic, and autoimmune findings were linked to diabetes, while bacterial and fungal infections were not.
Conclusions:
- Specific dermatological manifestations such as numbness, tingling, burning extremities, "prayer sign", finger pebbling, skin tags, stiff joints, and acanthosis nigricans are associated with diabetes mellitus in the elderly population of Kerala.
- Limitations include potential misclassification errors, lack of laboratory confirmation for diagnoses, and the influence of aging, glycemic control, comorbidities, and medications.
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