Overview: Diabetic dermopathy is commonly termed as pigmented pretibial patches or shin spots. It is the type of diabetes skin problem that usually affects the lower portion of the legs. Diabetic Dermopathy is believed to have developed from changes that occurred in the blood vessels. These changes result in the leakage of blood products from the blood vessels to the skin. That results in the formation of lesions-like structure. The root cause of this skin problem has not yet been identified. Trauma or injury in diabetic patients is believed to cause diabetic dermopathy. Also, the disease shows no evident variations between the non-insulin dependent and insulindependent diabetic patients.
Who’s at risk? The people who have diabetes have the highest chances of being affected by diabetes skin problem. More than 50% of the people are found to have spotted shins. Also, people who have poorly controlled diabetes are at serious risk. Old-aged people or the ones with prolonged diabetes life are attacked by Diabetes dermopathy. People without diabetes can have skin lesions too, but only after an injury. What is Diabetes and Its Uncommon Symptoms?
Causes The exact reason for diabetes dermopathy has not yet been identified. It generally occurs due to vascular or neuropathic complications. Diabetic patients with neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy suffer too. Patients who have had diabetes for more than 10-20 years are at higher risks. Diabetes skin lesions are associated with glycosylated haemoglobin. That is an indication for uncontrolled blood sugar level. Diabetic dermopathy could respond to a traumatic situation or an injury. It generally, affects the bony parts of the body such as the shins.
Signs and Symptoms Generally, diabetic dermopathy or Diabetes skin rash will vary in the colours and textures of skin lesions formed. It at times appears as pink to red, and in others, it is either tanned or forms dark brown patches. These dark spots usually