By Adam Garcia
Acanthosis Nigricans is a skin disorder characterized by darkened skin patches; usually it results in velvety, light-brown-to-black markings that occur in areas including the neck, armpits, groin, and under the breasts.
What Causes It?
Acanthosis Nigricans can affect otherwise healthy people, or it can be associated with certain medical conditions. Sometimes acanthosis nigricans is congenital (something a person is born with). It also can occur as a result of obesity or an endocrine (glandular) disorder. It is frequently found in people with diabetes and is most common among people of African descent. It is common in people whose body is not responding correctly to the insulin that they make in their pancreas (insulin resistance). This skin condition is also seen in people who have pre-diabetes or Type 2 diabetes.
There are many other possible causes of acanthosis nigricans, including:
- Addison disease, a condition caused by a deficiency of hormones from the adrenal gland
- Disorders of the pituitary gland within the brain
- Growth hormone therapy
- Hypothyroidism (low levels of thyroid hormone caused by decreased activity of the thyroid gland)
- Oral contraceptives
Most people with acanthosis nigricans have an insulin level that is higher than that of people of the same weight who don’t have acanthosis nigricans.
How Is It Treated?
Eating a special diet can help reduce circulating insulin and can lead to a rapid improvement of the skin problem. Other treatments to improve skin appearance include Retin-A, 20% urea, alpha hydroxyacids, and salicylic acid prescriptions. These are only minimally effective. Acanthosis nigricans caused by medicine may go away once the medication is stopped.
Can It Be Prevented?
When acanthosis nigricans is related to obesity, weight management is an important part of prevention. A diet that contributes to reduced insulin also can help prevent acanthosis nigricans.
Other preventive strategies include treating medical problems that are linked to acanthosis nigricans, such as avoiding medications that tend to cause or worsen the condition.
To help find a dermatologist to see if you have acanthosis nigricans just click here. For more on other skin conditions relating to diabetes contact us via email or leave a comment or question below.
