Dermatological manifestations of obesity

Abstract

Objective To determine the frequency of various cutaneous manifestations in patients with obesity and correlate these skin changes with the grades of obesity.Patients and methods The study was conducted at Departments of Medicine and Dermatology, Sir Syed College of Medical Sciences and Hospital Karachi from 1st January 2014 till 30th June 2014. Patients belonging to both sexes and different age groups having body mass index (BMI) >25kg/m2 with cutaneous manifestations of obesity were enrolled. Patients with skin changes secondary to other systemic illnesses, pregnancy and drugs were excluded. After an informed consent, demographic details, height and weight were documented. A clinical dermatological diagnosis was established after a detailed history and examination. Appropriate investigations were performed where required.Results 196 patients, 76 males (39%) and 120 females (61%) completed the study. Mean age was 43.6+10.8 years, age range being 19-70 years. Mean BMI 34+4.73 kg/m2 (range 25-50), grade I obesity in 75 (38%) and grade II obesity in 121 (62%) cases. The most common finding observed was acanthosis nigricans (49%), followed by striae (17%), fungal infections (15%), acrochordons (12%), viral infections (11%), hirsutism (11%) and bacterial infections (7.5%). Other less common associations included: xanthomas, corns, plantar hyperkeratosis and acne. Acanthosis nigricans and viral infections were significantly more among females; corn and callus among males. Obesity grade II was significantly associated with acanthosis nigricans, viral infections, hirsutism, striae and stasis dermatitis.Conclusion Obesity is commonly associated with a wide range of dermatological manifestations like acanthosis nigricans, striae, hirsutism, skin infections. Other less common associations include: xanthomas, corns, plantar hyperkeratosis and acne.