Introduction to cutaneous manifestations of systemic disease

Systemic diseases can affect multiple organ systems, including the skin. Cutaneous manifestations of a systemic disease can precede other manifestations of the associated systemic disease. Some skin conditions associated with systemic disease include:

• acanthosis nigricans
• chilblains
• cutaneous lupus erythematosus
• dermatomyositis
• erythema multiforme
• erythema nodosum
• cutaneous vasculitis (eg leukocytoclastic vasculitis)
• morphoea (localised scleroderma)
• necrobiosis lipoidica
• pyoderma gangrenosum
• sarcoidosis in skin
• Sweet syndrome.

However, these skin conditions are not always associated with systemic manifestations. Management of these conditions is usually by a specialist relevant to the organ system affected. If the skin is predominantly affected (eg photosensitivity, rash, scarring, alopecia), a dermatologist referral may be needed.

Skin manifestations of some systemic diseases can cause scarring or disfigurement; psychosocial support is important.