Skin Acne and Diabetes

Adult acne and its relation to diabetes is common.

Acne vulgaris, the most common form of acne, can be expected at some point in the life of a teen. But as an adult, acne becomes less common and more asymptomatic. Many adults suffering from diabetes also suffer from acne.

Typical Causes of Acne

Diabetes-related acne is often misdiagnosed.

Acne is an inflammatory disease that occurs when a hair follicle becomes blocked by an over abundance of secreted oil from the sebaceous gland and dead skin cells. The hair is unable to break through the pore and shaft, thus causing bacteria to develop. This leads to inflammation, otherwise known as Propionibacterium acnes. When this occurs, lesions and small, pus-filled cysts are visible to the site. Acne is generally found on the face, chest, back and upper arms. Because of the commonality of acne, diabetes-related acne is often misdiagnosed, according to American Diabetes Association. Acne flares can be triggered by stress, hormonal imbalance, hyperactive sebaceous glands, bacteria infection, steroids, and various illegal and prescription drugs.

Diabetes-related Acne

Diabetes is one of many metabolic disorders.

Diabetes is one of many metabolic disorders. Persons suffering from metabolic disorders, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Cushing's syndrome, as well as diabetes mellitus, often find themselves affected by acne throughout adulthood. Diabetes-related acne is due to an overproduction of insulin or insulin resistance, according to Islets of Hope.

Diabetes and the Skin

Diabetes affects the skin in general.

Diabetes affects the entire body, including the skin. According to the American Diabetes Association, "As many as 33 percent of people with diabetes will have a skin disorder caused or affected by diabetes at some time in their lives. In fact, such problems are sometimes the first sign that a person has diabetes."

Treatment

Topical creams and antibiotics may be prescribed for severe cases of acne.

The key object of treatment is to "kill the bacteria harbored in the blocked follicles." This is done either by the intake of antibiotics (tetracycline, doxycycline and minocycline), or by treating the affected areas externally with bactericidal substances like benzoyl peroxide or erythromycin, informs Islets of Hope. Liver congestion and failed kidney function typically result in skin ailments. When in a diseased state, these organs are unable to remove waste and other toxins from the body, thus resulting in skin eruptions.

Other Diabetes-related Skin Ailments

Immediate treatment is needed for skin lesions located on the feet.

Boils, carbuncles, fungal infections, itching, allergic reactions and diabetic dermopathy are a few of the many skin ailments associated with diabetes. For an accurate diagnosis of a persistent skin ailment associated with diabetes, consult a dermatologist. Skin lesions, cuts or open sores located on the foot should have immediate medical attention in diabetic persons.

References

• Isletd of Hope for Persons with Diabetes
• American Diabetes Association