Publication:

Cutaneous manifestations of endocrine disorders

Background It is a well-known fact that the skin is referred to as a window or mirror to the body. The present study was undertaken to know the spectrum of cutaneous manifestations in endocrinological disorders.

Methods A total of 500 patients with endocrinological disorders attending the Medical and Dermatology OPD at Dr. PSIMS&RF were studied. Among the 500 cases studied, 417 patients had diabetes, 81 cases had thyroid disorder and 2 patients had Addison’s disease.

Results Most common dermatoses observed in patients with diabetes mellitus were infections {(fungal 25.3%), bacterial (6.92%), viral (5.42%)} followed by eczemas (13.2%), psoriasis (8.13%). Among 81 patients with thyroid disease, 78 patients were hypothyroid and 3 patients had hyperthyroidism and skin manifestations were observed in 55 (67%) of the patients with thyroid disorders. Most common dermatoses observed in patients with hypothyroidism were fungal infections (23.07%), urticaria (19.23%), xerosis (13.46%), bacterial infections (13.46%), psoriasis (11.53%). All 3 hyperthyroid patients have shown skin manifestations. 2 patients had diffuse hair loss and 1 patient had vitiligo. 2 cases of Addison’s disease were observed and both of them showed diffuse hyperpigmentation with accentuation over palmar creases, knuckles and gums.

Conclusions The present study shows the wide range of skin lesions in patients with endocrinological disorders paerticularly diabetes mellitus and thyroid disease. Through knowledge of the associated skin lesions helps in early diagnosis of underlying endocrine abnormality and thereby appropriate treatment provided at the earliest helps in preventing complications.