Acanthosis nigricans is a type of skin disorder that makes the skin poorly defined besides leaving brown to black and velvety marks on it. The skin on the neck, under the arms, groin, and umbilicus are most vulnerable to this condition.

This condition may be the result of elevation of the insulin levels. The insulin receptors in the skin grow abnormally with their activation through the raised levels of insulin. This skin problem can be improved through reduction of circulating insulin with proper dieting or medication.

Signs and symptoms of acanthosis nigricans

Acanthosis nigricans causes change in the condition and color of the skin. A person affected by acanthosis nigricans can be found to have dark, thick and velvety skin mostly on the neck, armpits and groin. Acanthosis nigricans can sometimes affect lips, palms and even the soles of the feet. The skin changes occur gradually. In some cases acanthosis nigricans takes several months and even years to change the condition of the skin. It rarely causes itchiness on the affected portions.

Causes of acanthosis nigricans

Diabetics are frequently found to be affected by acanthosis nigricans. People of African descent are most commonly found to be affected by it.

Though condition of acanthosis nigricans is mostly associated with obesity or endocrine (glandular) disorder, it can affect person at any age and cant spare even healthy persons.

Certain medical conditions too can associate acanthosis nigricans. Acanthosis nigricans can sometimes be found congenital (present at birth).

The other possible factors that may result in acanthosis nigricans are:

Addison disease, (a condition of chronic adrenal insufficiency or hypocortisolism as a result of deficiency in steroid hormones from adrenal gland).

Defects in the pituitary gland (the master gland of the endocrine system) at the base of the brain.

Growth hormone therapy.

Hypothyroidism (a condition in which thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormone).

Oral contraceptives.

Acanthosis nigricans influences the insulin level. The insulin level in persons with acanthosis nigricans often found to be higher than those with similar weight who are unaffected by acanthosis nigricans.

The insulin levels may go up with the consumption of wrong foods like starches and sugars.

Acanthosis nigricans can be found to be severe in some cancer patients suffering from certain types of malignancy.

Risk factors

Although acanthosis nigricans can occur at any age, it mostly becomes apparent in those having dark skin.

Diagnosis of acanthosis nigricans

A doctor can diagnose the condition of acanthosis nigricans by going through the medical history and also conduct medical examination. Persons suspected to be acanthosis nigricans patients may have to undergo blood tests, X-rays or other tests for detection of underlying causes. Sometimes a sample of small skin is collected for lab testing to find out the nature of the condition.

When to seek medical advice?

You must see a doctor when you notice sudden changes on your skin. There can be some underlying conditions in you that require immediate medical attention.

Treatment for acanthosis nigricans

No specific treatment is available for acanthosis nigricans. However, skin changes may disappear with the treatment of some underlying conditions. In case you are overweight, you will need to lose excess pounds.

Sometimes dietary changes are also recommended in the treatment. In case you feel concerned about the look of your skin, your doctor may give you an advice for applying a cream or lotion on the affected area.

Tretinoin (Retin-A) and other modified vitamin A products along with some medications which are contained in specific lotion or cream may help lighten the areas of the skin that have been affected by acanthosis nigricans. Alpha hydroxyacids, and salicylic acid prescriptions can also be recommended for improvement in the condition of the skin.

Sometimes oral medications like etretinate or isotretinoin are also recommended as a treatment. Fish oil supplements may also be helpful. The thickness of affected areas reduces with the use of dermabrasion or laser therapy.

The circulating insulin level comes down the eating of a special diet, causing rapid improvement of the condition of skin. If certain medications result in acanthosis nigricans, they should be stopped for improvement of the skin.

Prevention of acanthosis nigricans

Since acanthosis nigricans can be associated with obesity, it is necessary to adopt weight management for its prevention. A good diet is necessary to bring down the level of insulin so as to prevent acanthosis nigricans.

Moreover treatment of other medical conditions like hypothyroidism, which are often associated with acanthosis nigricans can be another preventive strategy. It is also advised to avoid oral contraceptives and other medications that may either cause acanthosis nigricans or worsen this condition.