Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. This leads to high blood sugar levels, which can cause a range of complications, including skin problems.
Other specified diabetes mellitus with skin complications refers to a type of diabetes that is not classified as type 1 or type 2, but still causes skin issues. These skin complications can range from minor to severe and can include:
Diabetic dermopathy is the most common skin condition associated with diabetes. It appears as light brown, scaly patches on the skin, usually on the front of the legs. While this condition is not harmful, it can be a sign that a person has diabetes.
Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum is a rare condition that causes shiny, red, and sometimes itchy patches on the skin. These patches can eventually turn into ulcers that are slow to heal. This condition is more common in women than men and is often a sign of poorly controlled diabetes.
Diabetic blisters are another rare skin complication that occurs in people with diabetes. These blisters are usually painless and appear on the hands, feet, legs, or forearms. They can be a sign of diabetic neuropathy, which is nerve damage caused by high blood sugar levels.
Eruptive xanthomatosis is a condition that causes small, yellow bumps on the skin. These bumps usually appear on the buttocks, thighs, and upper arms. This condition is more common in young men with poorly controlled diabetes and high levels of triglycerides in their blood.
Bullosis diabeticorum is a rare condition that causes large, fluid-filled blisters on the skin. These blisters can appear on the hands, feet, legs, or forearms and are usually painless. This condition is more common in older men with poorly controlled diabetes.
Disseminated granuloma annulare is a condition that causes red or flesh-colored bumps on the skin. These bumps usually appear on the hands, feet, or elbows. While this condition is not harmful, it can be a sign that a person has diabetes.
If you have diabetes and notice any skin changes, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you manage your diabetes and prevent complications from occurring.