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What is acanthosis nigricans?
Acanthosis nigricans is a skin disorder that results in velvety,
light-brown-to-black markings that occur in areas including the neck, armpits
and groin.
What causes acanthosis nigricans?
Acanthosis nigricans can affect otherwise healthy people, or it can be
associated with certain medical conditions. Sometimes acanthosis nigricans is
congenital (something a person is born with). It also can occur as a result of
obesity or an endocrine (glandular) disorder. It is frequently found in people
with diabetes and is most common among people of African descent. There are many
other possible causes of acanthosis nigricans, including the following:
- Addison disease, a condition caused
by a deficiency of hormones from the adrenal gland
- Disorders of the pituitary gland
within the brain
- Growth hormone therapy
- Hypothyroidism (low levels of thyroid
hormone caused by decreased activity of the thyroid gland)
- Oral contraceptives
- Some cholesterol medications,
including nicotinic acid
Most people with acanthosis nigricans have an insulin level that is higher
than that of people of the same weight who don’t have acanthosis nigricans.
Eating too much of the wrong foods, especially starches and sugars, can raise
insulin levels. People with certain types of cancer can also develop severe
cases of acanthosis nigricans.
What are the symptoms of acanthosis nigricans?
The condition causes skin lesions that are darker than the surrounding skin.
The areas of affected skin have a velvety feel. Often, the lesions form in areas
including those in the folds along the neck, armpits, groin, and under the
breasts.
How is acanthosis nigricans diagnosed?
The condition can be diagnosed by a doctor through a medical history and
physical examination.
How is acanthosis nigricans treated?
Eating a special diet can help reduce circulating insulin and can lead to a
rapid improvement of the skin problem. Other treatments to improve skin
appearance include Retin-A, 20% urea, alpha hydroxyacids, and salicylic acid
prescriptions. Acanthosis nigricans caused by medicine may go away once the
medication is stopped.
Can acanthosis nigricans be prevented?
When acanthosis nigricans is related to obesity, weight management is an
important part of prevention. A diet that contributes to reduced insulin also
can help prevent acanthosis nigricans. Other preventive strategies include
treating medical problems that are linked to acanthosis nigricans (such as
hypothyroidism) and avoiding medications that tend to cause or worsen the
condition (like oral contraceptives).
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