Skin manifestations in rare types of diabetes and other endocrine conditions

Abstract

As the most visible and vulnerable organ of the human organism, the skin can provide an impression of its state of health. Rare forms of diabetes and endocrinopathies are often diagnosed late or primarily misinterpreted due to their rarity. Skin peculiarities associated with these rare diseases may be indicative of the underlying endocrinopathy or form of diabetes. At the same time, rare skin changes in diabetes or endocrinopathies can also be a major challenge for dermatologists, diabetologists and endocrinologists in optimal patient and therapy management. Active collaboration between these different specialist groups can therefore lead to increased patient safety, better therapeutic success and more targeted diagnostics.

Pediatric obesity and skin disease: cutaneous findings and associated quality-of-life impairments in 103 children and adolescents with obesity

“…If a detailed skin examination reveals lesions that are potentially associated with secondary obesity-related diseases, especially acanthosis nigricans, additional diagnostic tests are mandatory (e.g. insulin serum levels, genetic testing) ( 53 ).…”