Acanthosis Nigricans

•  Dr.K.T.S
•   Skin Diseases
• on Sep, 06, 2014
•  1 Comment.

Acanthosis nigricans

Acanthosis nigricans is a skin disorder in which there is darker, thick, velvety skin in body folds and creases.It presents as velvety brown thickened skin of the neck,axilla and over the joints of the fingers and toes.

Causes of Acanthosis Nigricans

1. Familal

2. Obesity-related.The majority of cases are associated with obesity and otherwise idiopathic. This is likely because of insulin resistance, and more likely to occur in darker-skinned persons.This is also known as “Pseudo-Acanthosis Nigricans”, or “Type 3 Acanthosis Nigricans”.Also associated with acromegaly.

3. When present before 40, may indicate underlying malignancy of stomach, colon and esophages

4. Ma be associated with severe insulin resistance type A (ovarian dysfunction and hirsutism) of type B (auto immune).

5.Drug-related Acanthosis nigricans has been linked to the use of nicotinic acid,glucocorticoid use, COCP, growth hormone therapy, and stilbesterol.This is also known as Type 4.

Symptoms of Acanthosis Nigricans

It usually appears slowly and doesn’t cause any symptoms other than skin changes.

Eventually, dark, velvety skin with very visible markings and creases appears in the armpits, groin and neck folds, and over the joints of the fingers and toes.

Less commonly, the lips, palms, soles of the feet, or other areas may be affected. These symptoms are more common in people with cancer.

Diagnosis of Acanthosis Nigricans

Usually diagnose by looking at your skin. A skin biopsy may be needed in unusual cases.

If there is no clear cause Blood tests to check blood sugar level

Endoscopy and X-Rays

Management of Acanthosis Nigricans

Because acanthosis nigricans  usually only changes the skin’s appearance, no treatment is needed.It is important, however, to treat any underlying medical problem that may be causing these skin changes. When it is related to obesity, losing weight often improves the condition.often fades if the cause can be found and treated.