Definition - Acanthosis Nigricans is a skin condition that causes skin to thicken abnormally and discolor in specific body creases and folds like armpits, neck, groin, and breasts. Acanthosis nigricans is most common in blacks, Native Americans, and Hispanics.
Definition and Diagnosis of Acanthosis Nigricans
New York (USA), June 16, 2013
What is Acanthosis Nigricans?
Definition of Acanthosis Nigricans
Acanthosis Nigricans (AN) is a skin condition that causes skin to thicken abnormally and discolor in specific body creases and folds like armpits, neck, groin, and breasts. Skin at these places changes color and turn velvety dark. It also smells foul. Acanthosis nigricans is most common in blacks, Native Americans, and Hispanics. It also occurs in obese women with polycystic ovarian disease and people with serious medical conditions. Normally treating underlying medical conditions absolves acanthosis nigricans.
Children with such skin condition could develop type 2 diabetes. It could also be an indication of an underlying tumor in internal organs like liver and stomach. In rare cases, it occurs on mucosal surfaces or other skin parts.
Diagnosis of Acanthosis Nigricans
Acanthosis nigricans develops due to internal malignancy. Medical conditions associated with insulin resistance cause such dark patches on skin. Insulin resistance increases hormone levels in blood and eventually it settles in skin cells leading to discoloration.
Endocrine diseases like diabetes mellitus and Cushing disease, pituitary gland tumors, and genetic disorders are primary causes. Certain drugs like birth control pills are also responsible. Skin in affected areas turns black from light brown. Skin texture also changes and affected areas seem thicker and more velvety. There is no specific treatment for acanthosis nigricans. Rather treating underlying medical conditions is the best treatment option to restore original skin color.
Acanthosis Nigricans – Causes and Evaluation
Causes and Evaluation of Acanthosis Nigricans
Acanthosis Nigricans – Signs and Symptoms
Signs and Symptoms of Acanthosis Nigricans
Acanthosis Nigricans – Complications and Risk Factors
Complications and Risk Factors for Acanthosis Nigricans
Acanthosis Nigricans – Diagnostic Tests and Procedures
Diagnostic Tests and Procedures for Acanthosis Nigricans
Acanthosis Nigricans – Treatments and Medications
Treatments and Medications for Acanthosis Nigricans
Acanthosis Nigricans – Clinical Trials and Research Studies
Clinical Trials and Research Studies on Acanthosis Nigricans
Acanthosis Nigricans – Home Remedies and Alternative Therapies
Home Remedies and Alternative Therapies for Acanthosis Nigricans
Acanthosis Nigricans – Prevention and Coping
Prevention and Coping with Acanthosis Nigricans
Acanthosis Nigricans – Lifestyle Changes and Self-Help
Lifestyle Changes and Self-Help for Acanthosis Nigricans
Acanthosis Nigricans – Prevention, Treatment, and Remedies
Acanthosis Nigricans – Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Prevention, Treatment, and Remedies