INTRODUCTION: Obesity is a serious chronic disease that has reached global proportions causing problems to public health. In Brazil, the prevalence of this disease shows a progressive increase in the number of people with overweight or obesity. Nevertheless, the skin manifestations have not been well studied. OBJECTIVE: To analyse the dermatosis most affecting obese patients and its treatment, particularly in proper application of dermatological therapy. METHOD: Was made a literature review between 2000 and 2010 of articles published in Medline/ PubMed, SciELO and Lilacs, books and monographs of the libraries of the University of Fortaleza and the Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil, crossing the headings obesity, dermatosis, therapy and physiotherapy. Were recognized as most important the following pathological conditions: stretch marks, cellulitis, acanthosis nigricans, acrochodons, tenderness, ulcers and impetigo. Among the forms of treatment was highlighted the role of dermatological physiotherapy. CONCLUSION: Dermatosis treatment by dermatological therapy and physiotherapy is possible and can bring result that satisfy the expectations of patients and providing them better quality of life.
Obesity; Skin diseases; Physical therapy