Dermatological changes associated to obesity: a literature review

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Obesity is a chronic disease that is increasing in prevalence worldwide, and is a
major contributor to health problems in most countries. This comorbidity increases the risk or is
associated with more than 30 medical problems, including dermatological conditions. OBJECTIVE:
To discuss the main dermatological changes related to obesity, in order to provide the clinician with an
overview on the subject. METHODOLOGY: This is a systematic literature review study, in which the
search was performed using the PubMed platform. DISCUSSION: Several changes in the skin and
attachments have been linked to obesity, xerosis and changes in trans epidermal water loss; changes in
collagen structure and wound healing; in the sebaceous glands and in the production of sebum and in
the sweat glands. In addition to circulatory and lymphatic changes; obesity seems to be the main cause
of microvascular dysfunction, contributing to the development of microangiopathy. CONCLUSION:
Cutaneous manifestations also deserve due attention, as, on many occasions, it can manifest the first
sign of a metabolic disorder.