Acanthosis Nigricans

What is Acanthosis Nigricans?

It is a skin condition characterized by dark, thickened and velvety texture. They appear in body folds and creases such as

Neck
Armpits
Groin
Hands
Elbows
Knees

The affected areas of your skin may also itch or have an odour.

Reasons for Acanthosis Nigricans?

1.Insulin Resistance: The most common cause, often linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes.

2.Hormonal disorders: Conditions like

PCOS
Hypothyroidism
Cushing’s disease

3.Genetic: Some people inherit a predisposition to develop this condition.

4.Medications: Few drugs that trigger acanthosis nigricans are

Nicotinic acid
Insulin
Corticosteroids
Birth pills
Estrogen
Human growth hormones
Protease inhibitors
Thyroid medications
Some body building supplements

5.Cancer: Rarely, acanthosis nigricans can be a sign of an underlying malignancy, particularly gastrointestinal tumors.

6.Autoimmune disorders: Like

Sjogren’s disease
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

Symptoms

Darkened areas of skin with a thick and velvety texture.
Possible itching or odour in the affected areas
Gradual development, through rapid onset can occur in some cases

Diagnosis

Skin appearance on examination
Skin biopsy for confirmation
Blood investigations to check diabetes, or any hormonal imbalances

Treatment of Acanthosis Nigricans

Treating the underlying condition, such as diabetes, hypothyroidism etc. often improves skin changes
Weight loss: In obesity, just by weight reduction can see significant improvement.
Oral drugs: Metformin can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the symptoms.
Topical creams: Retinoids, 20% urea, Alpha Hydroxy Acids lighten the affected skin.
Cosmetic treatment:

Serum infusion
Dermabrasion
Chemical peels with salicylic acid
IPL
AR Lasers

Preventive measures:

Weight management by balanced diet, regular exercise and healthy life style
Regular medical check up to control underlying disease
Avoiding drugs causing Acanthosis Nigricans

FAQ’S

1.What is the best treatment for Acanthosis nigricans?

Treating the underlying causes. Topical creams for skin lightening. Lasers and chemical peels.

2.Is Acanthosis nigricans a fungus?

Is a skin condition, presents with hyperpigmented and vevety skin changes in the intertriginous areas. The intertriginous areas are susceptible to superficial fungal infections.

3.Which is the best acid for treating Acanthosis nigricans?

10% salicylic acid in adults.

4.At what age Acanthosis occurs?

Commonly in < 40 years in both male and female.

5.Is Acanthosis a dirty disease?

The skin area affected looks like that, but its not a dirty disease.