Dermatological Problems in Children with Obesity

The document discussed the dermatological issues associated with obesity in children, highlighting that while the effects of obesity on cardiovascular and metabolic diseases were well-studied, its impact on the skin was less explored. Obesity was found to alter the skin barrier, affect sebaceous gland activity, and exacerbate existing skin conditions such as psoriasis. Common skin manifestations in obese individuals included pseudoacanthosis nigricans, fibroma pendulans, and striae distensae. In females, obesity-related hyperandrogenism could lead to acne vulgaris, hirsutism, and androgenetic alopecia. The study also noted a pathogenic link between obesity and psoriasis, with pro-inflammatory factors from adipose tissue worsening psoriasis, and a correlation between psoriasis severity and body mass index. Additionally, obesity increased the risk of skin infections like erysipelas and intertrigo.