The spectrum of skin manifestations of dermatoses in obese patients

Abstract

Introduction: Obesity is a prevalent condition in the routine of medical care at all levels of health care, however, there are few national studies on the most frequent dermatoses in this population. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the skin condition of the obese population and compare it with non-obese patients from the public health system. Materials and Methods: Quantitative cross-sectional study in which 60 overweight and obese adults (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²) and 60 with normal BMI (18.5 - 24.9 kg/m²) of both sexes from the internal medicine clinics were evaluated during the second half of 2015, randomly selected, separated into case and control groups. Results: There was a predominance of female patients (75%), aged 56.3 years, white, sedentary, with incomplete primary education. The three most prevalent dermatoses in the group of cases were stretch marks (57.4%), and the most affected region of the body was the abdomen, with 82.9%; ruby nevus (52.5%) and superficial venous insufficiency (41%). Discussion: The findings indicate a high frequency of dermatoses in obese individuals. These patients need adequate follow-up as there is the possibility of preventing dermatological and systemic changes. Conclusion: All physicians need to be trained in the diagnosis of these conditions. Cases with specific surgical or cosmiatric clinical needs should be referred for dermatological management in order to reduce risks, damage and discomfort.