Skin Manifestations of Diabetes Mellitus

Skin disorders are common in diabetic patients and may also act as clues for diagnosis in undiagnosed cases. These manifestations may be summarized in five categories including non-infectious, infectious, treatment-related and miscellaneous manifestations as well as diabetic foot ulcer. The most common non-infectious disorder occurring in up to 70% of patients is diabetic dermopathy. Infections with staphylococcus aureus and streptococcus hemolytic group A, and dermatophytoses are seen frequently in diabetics. Moreover, severe and life-threatening infections such as necrotizing fasciitis, malignant external otitis and rhinocerebral mucormycosis may be seen especially in elderly diabetics. Diabetic foot ulcer is also a major problem in longstanding diabetes and needs particular attention. Complications due to treatment of diabetes are also found in some patients. In conclusion, skin manifestations must be considered as an important issue in any patient, especially in obese ones. Improved metabolic control as well as using newly introduced drugs may help reduce or even resolve these problems.