In order to bring you the best possible user experience, this site uses Javascript. If you are seeing this message, it is likely that the Javascript option in your browser is disabled. For optimal viewing of this site, please ensure that Javascript is enabled for your browser.
 EMAIL TO FRIEND     |      PRINTER FRIENDLY     |    
          advertisement

Skin Disorders & Diabetes

Also called: Dermatopathy, Diabetic Dermopathy, Dermopathy

- Summary
- About diabetic skin disorders
- Types and differences
- Potential causes
- Signs and symptoms
- Prevention and treatment
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Nikheel Kolatkar, M.D.

Summary

People with diabetes are prone to many skin disorders. These include conditions that affect only diabetic individuals and conditions that occur more frequently or are more serious among diabetes patients.

Diabetes mellitus is a disorder in the body's ability to break down blood sugar (glucose).Diabetic skin conditions include abnormal growths, ulcers, infections and changes in the skin itself. They range from harmless to potentially fatal, from common to rare, from easily cured to complex. Among the serious diseases, early treatment often prevents complications and speeds recovery.

There are many reasons people with diabetes face increased risk of skin problems:

  • Impaired circulation
  • Hyperglycemia (high glucose)
  • Hyperlipemia (high levels of fats in the blood)
  • Suppressed immune system
  • Diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage)
  • High blood pressure

The key to prevention of many types of diabetic skin conditions is regular good hygiene and control of risk factors. Treatments depend on the particular disorder but often include surgical incision or debridement (removal of damaged tissue) and antibiotics, antifungals or other medications.

page 1 of 7 | Next Page




Review Date: 02-01-2007

TODAY: 'Living Large in America'

Dr. Snyderman explains what extra layers of fat do to the inside of the body.

TODAY: Raising diabetes awareness

Maria takes a look at people with diabetes and some of the latest treatments.

Sneeze No More

Sneeze No More

You’ll find it easy to avoid allergies.

Love the outdoors again
advertisement
advertisement
Home  |  Health Centers  |  Health A-Z  |  Staying Healthy  |  Diet & Fitness  |  Woman & Family  |  Pregnancy  |  Community

also on iVillage: Pregnancy & Parenting  |  Beauty & Style  |  Home & Garden  |  Food  |  Weddings  |  Love  |  Entertainment

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Site Map  |  Newsletters  |  Feedback

Copyright (c) 2000-2008 iVillage Inc. All rights reserved. The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.