Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum ("NLD") is a rash that occurs on the lower legs. It is more common in women, and there are usually several spots. Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum is a rash which usually occurs on the legs. It is more common in women, and there are usually several spots. They are slightly raised shiny red-brown patches. Ultraviolet light treatment has been found to control this condition when it is flaring. A baby aspirin each day, and other medications that thin the blood, such as Trental, may help NLD. Other medications, including prednisone pills (steroids) are used in difficult or severe cases. Necrobiosis Lipoidica Diabeticorum usually occurs more often in people with diabetes, in people with a family history of diabetes or a tendency to get diabetes. Still, the exact cause is not known.

Clinical presentation: Lesions may be single but multiple lesions are more common. NL may present as red papules which may enlarge to form patches or plaques with an atrophic yellowish-brown and slightly depressed center. The lesions may resolve spontaneously or become persistent chronic lesions which may ulcerate.

Causes

* Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum usually occurs in patients with diabetes. * The exact cause in not known.

Sign and symptoms

* Rashes on the leg. * Burning and painful sensation over the affected area of the skin. * Skin lesions. * The centre of the rash will usually be yellow.

Necrobiosis Lipoidica Diadeticorum Treatment

Treatment of necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum is difficult. Cortisone injections can also be used to treat NLD. These are more effective than cortisone creams. Ultraviolet light treatment has been found to control this condition when it is flaring.

Other Treatments

Treatments can include steroid injections, tretinoin, vitamin A, topical steroids, cyclosporine, excision of the area, skin grafting, laser topical PUVA, anti-thrombolytic agents, heparin, and anti-platelet agents.

The "Clinical Snapshot" series provides a concise examination of a clinical presentation including history, treatment, patient education, and nursing measures. Using the format here, you are invited to submit your "Clinical Snapshot" to Dermatology Nursing.