An epidemiological study of cutaneous manifestations of diabetes mellitus at Tertiary Care Centre of North West Rajasthan (India)

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels and disturbances in the carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Diabetes is the most common endocrine disorder, affecting 8.3% of the population. Objectives: To study the prevalence of various dermatoses in the diabetic population. Materials and methods: This was an Hospital based cross sectional study. All the patients of Diabetes mellitus with cutaneous manifestations of both sexes and all ages, irrespective of their presenting symptoms, attending our dermatology outpatient department over one year period were included in this study. A detailed clinical history regarding onset and duration was taken and any associated symptoms were asked. After obtaining consent, a thorough systemic and dermatological examination was conducted and all details were entered in a structured proforma. Results: The common skin disorders observed were: fungal infections (29.5%), acrochordons (11.25%), bacterial infections (10.5%), diabetic pruritus (8.25%), icthyosis (5.5%), and acanthosis nigricans (5%). Higher prevalence was noted in type 2 diabetes mellitus then type 1diabetes mellitus. There was a significant correlation between cutaneous manifestations and duration of diabetes mellitus. Conclusion: Cutaneous involment in diabetes mellitus is quite prevalant which affect the quality of life of patients. It is found more frequently among type 2 diabetes mallitus and increasing duration of diabetes mellitus increases the possibility of cutaneus involment.Thus, in early-stage disorders such as callus and xerosis, detection and management appeared to be important in reducing complication related to diabetes mellitus.