This protocol covers the management of scleredema presenting with symmetrical, woody, non-pitting induration of the neck and upper trunk — characteristically sparing the fingers — in patients with diabetes mellitus. This clinical pattern occurs predominantly in men.
The hallmark is symmetrical, woody, non-pitting skin induration involving the neck and upper trunk, with the fingers spared. This form of scleredema — historically described as scleredema diabeticorum — manifests predominantly in men with underlying diabetes mellitus.
Management is directed at both the skin manifestation and the underlying metabolic condition. Physical therapy plays a role in addressing mobility of involved areas. Concurrent management of the associated diabetes mellitus is integral to the approach.
DOI: 10.1111/jdv.19937
Type 3 scleroedema was named 'scleredema diabeticorum' by Krakowski and colleagues, and manifests mostly in men with diabetes mellitus.
Physical therapy is recommended for all three types of scleroedema, in order to improve the mobility of patients.
In addition, appropriate treatment should be performed if an associated condition could be identified (infection in type 1 scleroedema, a lymphoproliferative disorder in type 2, or diabetes mellitus in type 3).
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