Imaging More than Skin-Deep: Radiologic and Dermatologic Presentations of Systemic Disorders

Cutaneous manifestations of systemic diseases are diverse and sometimes precede more serious diseases and symptomatology. Similarly, radiologic imaging plays a key role in early diagnosis and determination of the extent of systemic involvement. Simultaneous awareness of skin and imaging manifestations can help the radiologist to narrow down differential diagnosis even if imaging findings are nonspecific.

To improve diagnostic accuracy and patient care, it is important that clinicians and radiologists be familiar with both cutaneous and radiologic features of various systemic disorders. This article reviews cutaneous manifestations and imaging findings of commonly encountered systemic diseases.

Familiarity with the most disease-specific skin lesions help the radiologist pinpoint a specific diagnosis and consequently, in preventing unnecessary invasive workups and contributing to improved patient care.