Your Blood Sugar Levels: Do You Have Diabetic Dermopathy?

Is it a diabetic spot?

Hello Doctor, my BMI is 21.
I have been consistently engaging in aerobic exercise and maintaining a healthy diet, but I have been troubled by diabetes issues recently.
At the end of February this year, my fasting blood glucose was 89, but by the end of March, it increased to 98.
My hemoglobin A1c level is 5.0%.
I understand that this may not indicate diabetes, but my values are on the borderline of the normal range, which has caused me significant anxiety.
I often search online for diabetes symptoms and constantly doubt myself.
I would like to ask the doctor about the condition shown in the pictures.
Is this what is referred to as anterior tibial pigmentation (diabetic spots)? There are relatively more on my left ankle, and there is a slight presence on the tibia, but as shown in the pictures, they are very small and sparse.
Is this normal? Or is there a need to conduct an oral glucose tolerance test? Thank you for your clarification, Doctor.
Ankle photo: https://myppt.cc/FZlZf Tibia photo: https://myppt.cc/J48R1 Tibia photo: https://myppt.cc/xyLBk

Mian, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/12

Dr. Li Jian reply Internal Medicine

Currently, blood sugar levels are normal.
Regarding skin lesions, you can consult a dermatologist.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2024/04/12

More Info

Understanding your blood sugar levels and their implications for your health can be quite concerning, especially when you are actively trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Based on the information you've provided, your recent blood tests indicate that your fasting blood sugar levels are within the normal range, with a reading of 89 mg/dL in February and 98 mg/dL in March. Your HbA1c level of 5.0% is also well within the normal range, indicating good long-term blood sugar control.
It's important to note that while your fasting blood sugar has increased slightly, it is still below the threshold for prediabetes, which is defined as a fasting blood sugar level between 100 mg/dL and 125 mg/dL. Your concern about being on the edge of diabetes is understandable, but it’s crucial to remember that fluctuations in blood sugar levels can occur due to various factors, including diet, stress, and physical activity.
Regarding your concern about diabetic dermopathy, which is characterized by small, brownish spots on the skin, often found on the lower legs, it is typically associated with long-standing diabetes and is a result of changes in the small blood vessels. However, given your current blood sugar levels and HbA1c, it is unlikely that you are experiencing diabetic dermopathy. The small spots you are observing on your ankle may not necessarily be related to diabetes, especially if they are few in number and not accompanied by other symptoms such as pain or itching.
If you are experiencing anxiety about your health, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide reassurance and possibly conduct a thorough examination of your skin. They can help determine whether the spots you are seeing are indeed related to any underlying condition or if they are benign.
As for the glucose tolerance test, it is typically recommended if there are concerns about prediabetes or diabetes, especially if there are risk factors present, such as a family history of diabetes. However, given your current test results, it may not be necessary at this time. Instead, focusing on maintaining your healthy lifestyle through regular exercise and a balanced diet is a proactive approach to managing your health.

In summary, while it is natural to feel anxious about potential health issues, your current blood sugar levels and HbA1c indicate that you are not in the diabetic range. The skin changes you are observing may not be related to diabetes, and consulting with a healthcare provider can help clarify any concerns you have. Regular monitoring of your blood sugar levels and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will be key in managing your health moving forward.

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