Can you identify this asympomatic rash on a 53-year-old man's leg?

A 52-year-old man with diabetes mellitus presents for evaluation of an asymptomatic rash on his right leg. The lesions have been present for 2 months.

Which of the following do you supect?

A.Stasis dermatitis.

B.Lichen planus.

C.Dermatophyte infection.

D.Diabetic dermopathy.

E.Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum.

(Answer on next page.)

Answer: Diabetic dermopathy

Diabetic dermopathy, D, is thought to be a microangiopathic condition that produces asymptomatic, hyperpigmented macules on the shins of persons with diabetes.

Stasis dermatitis is not as discrete and erupts on the lower legs. Lichen planus features purplish plaques. Erythema and scale are characteristic of the less pigmented lesions of dermatophyte infections. Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum plaques are usually atrophic and orangish.