What types of skin problems are associated with Parkinson’s disease?

The following skin disorders may be experienced by people with Parkinson’s disease:^[1]

Seborrheic dermatitis (SD): SD is a chronic eczema-like condition that affects areas of the skin that tend to have more sebaceous (oil-producing) glands, such as the scalp, face, ears, and upper chest.^[2] Other areas of skin where bends or folds are present, such as under the arms, breasts, or groin, may also be affected. Although SD is a common skin condition in the general population, it tends to occur with higher frequency in people with Parkinson’s disease.^[3] Symptoms include increased dandruff and the formation of inflamed, scaly patches on areas of the skin that are affected. People with mild to moderate SD often respond well to antifungal medications or corticosteroids. However, some people with Parkinson’s disease may develop more severe forms of SD that may require treatment with more toxic, systemic antifungals, such as fluconazole or itraconazole.^[4][3][5]

Oily skin: People with Parkinson’s may also experience generally oily skin, without developing seborrheic dermatitis.

Sweating disorders: The neurological pathology of Parkinson’s disease can also affect the part of the nervous system that regulates sweating, resulting in hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), or hypohidrosis, a condition in which insufficient levels of sweat are produced (which can lead to hyperthermia).^[6]

Rosacea: Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes blushing and the formation of small, pus-filled bumps on the face. The affected areas of skin can feel hot and tender, with small blood vessels visible on the skin surface. People with rosacea may also experience itching, burning, or stinging in the areas that are affected. Rosacea may also be a risk factor for developing PD, with one large cohort study noting a 2-fold increased risk of PD in people with ocular rosacea.^[7]

Increased melanoma risk: People with Parkinson’s may be at increased risk of developing melanoma, a type of skin cancer.^[8][9]

Bullous pemphigoid (BP): BP is the most common autoimmune-mediated blistering skin disease. People with BP develop large, fluid-filled blisters, commonly on areas of the skin associated with creases or folds, such as the elbows and knees.^[10] BP may occur with increased frequency in people with Parkinson’s disease or other neurological disorders. One large case-control study found that while BP occurred in around 1% of the general population, it occurred with 3% frequency in people with Parkinson’s.^[11]