What Causes Diabetic Dermopathy?

We often see patients with a variety of skin concerns, including those related to diabetes. One common condition we diagnose and help manage is diabetic dermopathy, sometimes called “shin spots.” This skin issue frequently affects people living with diabetes, and being able to recognise its signs is an important part of your overall health.

Diabetic dermopathy appears as small, round or oval patches that are light brown or reddish-brown, most often on the shins but sometimes elsewhere on the body. These patches are typically slightly indented and may have a thin, scaly texture. While they rarely cause discomfort, pain, or itching, they usually develop symmetrically on both legs and may leave a faint mark even after fading.

Diabetic dermopathy results from changes in the small blood vessels that supply the skin, changes that can occur with long-term high blood sugar levels. While the condition itself is not harmful and typically does not require treatment, its presence can signal the need for a closer look at your diabetes management.

If you notice changes like these on your skin and have diabetes, it’s essential to include your dermatologist as part of your care team. At Midwest Dermatology Centre, our board-certified dermatologists in Granville can help you identify diabetic dermopathy, rule out other possible causes, and coordinate care with your primary provider or endocrinologist. Early recognition of skin changes can help in the management of diabetes and prevent further complications.

We often see patients living with diabetes who notice changes in their skin. One of the most common diabetes related skin conditions we diagnose is diabetic dermopathy. Recognizing diabetic dermopathy and distinguishing it from other skin issues is essential for proper care and peace of mind.

Diabetic dermopathy typically shows up as light brown, scaly patches or spots—often oval or round—that appear on the front of the lower legs, especially the shins. These “shin spots” are usually painless, non-itchy, and don’t open up or become infected. While their exact cause isn’t completely understood, they’re believed to result from changes in the small blood vessels caused by long-term high blood sugar.

It’s important to differentiate diabetic dermopathy from other skin problems common in people with diabetes. For example:

• Acanthosis nigricans appear as dark, velvety patches in body folds like the neck or armpits.
• Diabetic blisters (bullosis diabeticorum) are painless blisters that can form on the hands, feet, or legs.
• Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum causes yellow, waxy plaques with a reddish border, usually on the lower legs, and may sometimes ulcerate.

What makes diabetic dermopathy unique is its benign nature: the spots are not painful, don’t itch, and, unlike infections or necrobiosis lipoidica, they rarely need medical treatment. However, their presence can be a sign of underlying vascular changes associated with diabetes.

Our dermatology specialists are trained to spot these subtle differences in skin conditions. Identifying diabetic dermopathy early can help us monitor for other potential complications of diabetes and provide guidance on maintaining healthy skin. Most importantly, recognising these patterns ensures that you get the most appropriate care without unnecessary treatments.

We frequently see patients with diabetes who are concerned about changes in their skin. One of the most common conditions we encounter is diabetic dermopathy. This skin issue appears as light brown, scaly patches, most often on the front of the lower legs. While these patches may be noticeable, they are usually painless and do not cause itching or significant discomfort.

Most of our patients with diabetic dermopathy report that the lesions are asymptomatic, meaning they do not experience burning, tingling, or tenderness in the affected areas. Sometimes, if the skin becomes very dry, mild irritation may develop, but this is not typical. In general, diabetic dermopathy is considered a cosmetic issue rather than a medical concern.

However, if you are living with diabetes in the Granville area and notice skin changes accompanied by pain, intense itching, or other unusual symptoms, it’s important to get a professional evaluation. These symptoms could indicate other skin conditions or potential complications that require prompt attention.

Our dermatology team is experienced in diagnosing and managing skin concerns related to diabetes. If you have questions about changes in your skin or if you would like an expert assessment, please contact our Granville, OH, office to schedule an appointment.

Our experienced dermatology team frequently evaluates and manages skin conditions commonly associated with diabetes, such as diabetic dermopathy. This condition typically presents as light brown, scaly patches, often on the shins, which are the most frequently affected area. Occasionally, similar spots may appear on other bony regions, including the thighs, forearms, and sides of the feet, but it is rare to see them on the upper body.

The shin’s susceptibility is believed to be due to both their exposure to minor trauma and changes in the small blood vessels in people living with diabetes. Our dermatologists are skilled at recognising the distinguishing features and typical locations of diabetic dermopathy, helping to differentiate it from other skin concerns that may arise in our patients with diabetes. If you notice unusual spots or changes in your skin, especially if you have diabetes, our specialists can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management tailored to your needs. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 11959 Newark Granville Road, Granville, OH 43023. We serve patients from Granville, OH, Park Ridge OH, Welsh Hills OH, Newark OH, Alexandria OH, Pataskala OH, and surrounding areas.