[Cutaneous complications of massive obesity]

Massive obesity leads to nonspecific skin disorders. Skin folds are more numerous and deeper in the obese subject, and can become the site of various disorders. Hence the difficulty of diagnosis and treatment is increased. Acanthosis nigricans should be recognized, but not solely attributed to obesity, since other causes, particularly cancer, may be involved. Finally, leg ulcerations, a frequent consequence of the venous insufficiency inherent in obesity, should not lead to overlook other underlying causes, particularly in diabetic patients.