Diabetic dermopathy (shin spots) and diabetic retinopathy – Are they associated?

Abstract

Objectives: Shin spots and diabetic retinopathy are considered as manifestations of diabetic microangiopathy. However, there are only a few studies about this possible association. We undertook this study to confirm a possible association between shin spots and diabetic retinopathy. Materials and Methods: A total of 137 patients between the ages of 40 and 70 years having diabetes mellitus of at least 5 years duration were included in the study. These patients were examined for skin and retinal changes. The study period was 6 months. Results: Of the 137 diabetic patients included in this study, 123 (89.8%) had shin spots. The mean age of diabetic patients with shin spots was 59.6 years. Diabetic retinopathy was seen in 83 cases (60.6%), of which 79 (95.2%) had shin spots. The mean duration of diabetes mellitus in patients with shin spots was 12.7 years and it was 8.1 years in those without shin spots. The mean duration of diabetes mellitus in patients with diabetic retinopathy was 13.6 years and it was 9.9 years in those without diabetic retinopathy. On doing regression analysis, it was found that it is the duration of diabetes that was associated with shin spots. Limitations: Small sample size was the limitation. Conclusion: Duration of diabetes mellitus is associated with the presence of dermopathy.