Acanthosis nigricans is distinguished by dark, dense, velvety skin in body folds and creases.
Acanthosis nigricans can influence usually healthy men and women, or it can be linked with health issues. Some individuals could inherit these. It’s commonest among folks of African lineage.
Obesity, diabetic issues, endocrine disorders, certain medicines specifically hormones such as human growth hormone or oral contraceptives (“the pill”), can additionally trigger acanthosis nigricans.
Gastrointestinal or genitourinary system cancer or lymphoma can be connected with acanthosis nigricans.
Acanthosis nigricans usually appears gradually and doesn’t trigger any signs other than changes in the skin. Sooner or later, dark, velvety epidermis with creases starts appearing into the armpits, neck, and groin. Often, the palms, lips, soles of the feet, or various other regions on the body can be impacted.
Just by looking at the skin, acanthosis nigricans can be diagnosed. A skin biopsy may be required in unusual situations. Your doctor may ask you to get blood investigations, endoscopy, or x-ray studies to get rid of the possibility for underlying diabetic issues or cancer.
Acanthosis nigricans often fades if the reason can be seen and addressed.
Topical (or systemic) retinoids, topical antibiotics, topical corticosteroids, and keratolytics can be tried for their atrophogenic result. The absolute most efficient therapy is losing weight and exercise to correct the underlying endocrinologic abnormality. The cutaneous changes of acanthosis nigricans perform react to decreased blood insulin levels.