Definition of Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum

Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum: A dull red raised area on the skin that evolves into a shiny scar with a violet border, most often on the shin. There is telangiectasia with blood vessels easily visible under the skin. The area be itchy and painful and crack open. Occurs in 0.3% of patients with diabetes. Also seen in rheumatoid arthritis. Treatment is variable, and may include support stockings, leg elevation. Medication studied for NLD includes topical and intralesional steroids, topical tacrolimus, cyclosporine, bovine collagen, ticlopidine, nicotinamide, clofazimine, and intralesional heparin. Ultraviolet Light A (UVA) therapy has also been studied for NLD.