What Is Acanthosis Nigricans?
Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a skin condition characterized by dark, thick, velvety skin patches that typically appear in body folds and creases.
Common Locations
- Neck
- Armpits
- Groin area
- Under breasts
- Elbows and knees
Causes and Risk Factors
Primary Causes:
-
Insulin resistance
-
Type 2 diabetes
-
Obesity
-
Hormonal disorders
-
Certain medications
-
Rare genetic conditions
Risk Factors:
- Family history of diabetes
- Being overweight
- Endocrine disorders
- Certain ethnicities (more common in people with darker skin)
Signs and Symptoms
- Dark, thickened skin patches
- Velvety or rough texture
- Possible itching
- Gradual development over time
Diagnosis
- Visual examination
- Medical history review
- Blood tests to check for:
- Blood sugar levels
- Insulin levels
- Hormonal imbalances
Treatment Options
Primary Treatment:
-
Treating underlying conditions
- Managing diabetes
- Weight loss
- Hormone therapy if needed
Topical Treatments:
- Retinoid creams
- Alpha hydroxy acids
- Prescription medications
Prevention and Management
- Maintain healthy weight
- Regular exercise
- Balanced diet
- Blood sugar monitoring
- Regular medical check-ups
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if:
- Skin changes appear suddenly
- Patches spread rapidly
- Associated with other symptoms
- Concerned about diabetes risk
Complications
Untreated AN may indicate:
- Developing diabetes
- Metabolic syndrome
- Other underlying health conditions
Long-term Outlook
With proper treatment of underlying conditions, AN can improve significantly. However, this requires ongoing management and lifestyle modifications.