Things You Didn’t Know About Acanthosis Nigricans

In the folds and crevices of the body, a disorder called acanthosis nigricans results in patches of black, thick, velvety skin. Usually, the groin, neck, and armpits are affected.

Obese individuals often have acanthosis nigricans. Rarely, the skin problem may be a symptom of cancer in an internal organ, such the liver or stomach.

The normal color and texture of the skin might be restored by treating the underlying cause of acanthosis nigricans.

Acanthosis Nigricans 

Skin disease called acanthosis nigricans results in a dark discoloration in the creases and folds of the body. Usually, the groin, neck, and armpits are affected.

Symptoms

Dark, thick, velvety skin in the folds and crevices of the body is the primary symptom of acanthosis nigricans. It often develops at the back of the neck, groin, and armpits. It progresses slowly. The damaged skin may become itchy, smell, and grow skin tags.

When to see a doctor

If you observe changes in your skin, particularly if they occur suddenly, speak with your healthcare professional. You could require therapy for an underlying issue.

Causes

Possible connections between acanthosis nigricans and resistance to insulin. The majority of persons with acanthosis nigricans have developed insulin resistance. The pancreas produces the hormone insulin, which the body uses to digest sugar. Type 2 diabetes is brought on by insulin resistance. Insulin resistance may contribute to the development of acanthosis nigricans and is associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Certain medications and supplements. Acanthosis nigricans may be brought on by high doses of niacin, birth control pills, prednisone, and other corticosteroids.

Cancer. Acanthosis nigricans is a side effect of several cancers. These include liver, stomach, and colon cancers as well as lymphoma.

Risk Factors

Obese persons are more likely to develop acanthosis nigricans. Additionally, those who have a family history of the ailment are at a greater risk, particularly if obesity and type 2 diabetes run in the family.

Complications

Type 2 diabetes is substantially more likely to occur in those with acanthosis nigricans.

Diagnosis

Skin examinations might reveal Acanthosis nigricans. Your doctor may collect a skin sample (biopsy) to examine under a microscope in order to confirm the diagnosis. Or you might need more testing to determine the source of your symptoms.

Treatment

Acanthosis nigricans do not have a particular therapy. Your healthcare physician can advise using skin creams, specialty soaps, medicines, or laser therapy to aid with discomfort and odor.

The underlying reason may benefit from treatment. Examples comprise:

Get thinner. Weight loss and dietary advice may be helpful if obesity is the root cause of your acanthosis nigricans.

Stop taking your drugs. Your healthcare professional can advise you to cease taking a drug or supplement if your illness appears to be connected to it.

Undergo surgery. If a malignant tumor was the cause of the acanthosis nigricans, surgery to remove the tumor often resolves the skin problems.

Getting ready for the appointment

It’s probable that your primary care physician will be your first stop. Alternatively, a dermatologist or endocrinologist who specializes in treating hormone-related issues may be suggested to you. It’s a good idea to prepare for your meeting since they might be quick and there is often a lot to talk about.

How you can help

You may wish to make a list of responses to the following questions before your appointment:

• Have any family members ever had these skin symptoms?
• Is diabetes a family history for you?
• Have you ever had issues with your thyroid, adrenal glands, or ovaries?
• What prescription drugs and dietary supplements do you regularly take?
• Have you ever needed to take prednisone at high dosages for more than a week?

What to anticipate from your physician

Your doctor will probably quiz you about things like the following:

• What time did your symptoms start?
• Have things worsened?
• Which bodily parts are impacted?
• Has cancer ever affected you?