Necrobiosis Lipoidica

Necrobiosis lipoidica is a rare, chronic, and idiopathic disease characterized by collagen degeneration that causes skin lesions, typically on the anterior shin surface. This disease is classically associated with diabetes mellitus, typically type 1, and carries a risk of ulceration. Skin changes include thickening of the blood vessel walls, collagen deterioration, granuloma formation, and fat deposition. A major complication of the disease is ulcer formation, often occurring after trauma. Moreover, if necrobiosis lipoidica becomes chronic, it may rarely progress to squamous cell carcinoma. The exact etiology of necrobiosis lipoidica remains unknown, as only a small percentage of patients with diabetes mellitus develop necrobiosis lipoidica. However, the most common theory is vascular disturbance involving immune complex deposition or microangiopathic changes leading to collagen degeneration. This activity reviews the pathophysiology of necrobiosis lipoidica and highlights the role of the interprofessional team in ensuring the best patient outcomes.

Credit & MOC Details

Credit information is provided by the course provider. We recommend confirming credit eligibility with the provider or your licensing board before starting the activity.