Dermatologic Manifestations of Endocrine Disorders

Endocrine disorders are known to involve all organ systems of the body, including the skin. The cutaneous manifestations of endocrine disorders can range from common findings such as acanthosis nigricans, pretibial myxedema, acne, hirsutism, hyper or hypopigmentation to rare cutaneous findings such as miliaria rubra, calciphylaxis, lentigines, and calcinosis cutis. These cutaneous symptoms can sometimes be the presenting symptoms or can even be pathognomonic of the underlying endocrine condition. In some cases, the cutaneous symptoms from an underlying endocrine abnormality may be the most prominent. These symptoms can significantly affect the quality of life of individuals. Often, individuals may seek health care from a dermatologist or primary care physician for isolated skin symptoms. Therefore, it is imperative for physicians to recognize the skin symptoms as the manifestation of the endocrine disorder for prompt diagnosis and treatment of the underlying endocrine disorder.