SolveYourProblem Article Series: Diabetes
Diabetes Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

What is Diabetic Dermopathy?

Diabetic dermopathy is a common skin problem seen in people who have had diabetes for a while. It is also called shin spots because it is most often found on the shins.

Do you have diabetic dermopathy: YES / NO ?

Diabetic dermopathy forms lesions or visible changes of the skin. The lesions are also known as shin spots or pigmented pretibial patches. In the beginning you will usually see papules or raised areas of skin which are a dull red color. After a while they form round or oval spots. They may turn darker and become indented and scaly.

Often there will be many together, making large discolored patches of skin on the lower legs. They may become slightly indented after a time. They do not usually itch or sting, so if you have an itchy rash, it is probably not diabetic dermopathy.

What does it look like on your body: ____________________.

Where are you seeing it: ____________________.

The cause of shin spots in diabetics is not known for sure but it is likely related to other vascular problems that diabetics can have. Deterioration of the small blood vessels that supply blood to the skin may lead to some leakage of blood and blood products into the skin.

Diabetic dermopathy is found in between 25% and 50% of people with diabetes. Although the patches are usually seen on the lower legs, they may also be found on thighs, forearms and the sides of the feet, and occasionally on the scalp or trunk. This condition is more common in people who have had diabetes for a longer time, and in people whose blood glucose levels are not well controlled.

Unfortunately there is not very much that can be done for this unsightly skin condition. Keeping the skin well moisturized may help to prevent it, or stop it getting worse. It is also best to try to avoid injuring the legs because bruises and wounds may make matters worse. It may also be aggravated by shaving or waxing.

What are you actively doing to help or prevent it: ____________________.

However, the good news is that it is not dangerous. No treatment is required and the only negative about it is the way that it looks. You will probably want to keep your legs covered but otherwise you can live with the lesions without any problems.

The best thing that you can do for diabetic dermopathy is to manage your diabetes well. This means following all the advice that your doctor gives and keeping good control of your blood glucose levels.

What more can you do to manage your diabetes better: ____________________.

Are you insulin dependent: YES / NO ?

If you are insulin-dependent, make sure that your meals are well timed and that your insulin doses are balanced against what you eat. Avoid binges and fasts. Check your blood glucose levels regularly.

If you are not insulin-dependent, try to bring down your blood glucose levels by following a healthy diet and taking any medication that your doctor recommends. These steps may bring about some improvement in the skin.

When you have diabetes, it is important to control your diabetes well so that your blood glucose levels remain as stable as possible. This may help you to avoid many of the more serious complications of diabetes as well as helping to improve or prevent diabetic dermopathy.

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by SolveYourProblem.com : 2011

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