What causes darkened skin patches (acanthosis nigricans) and what can be done to lighten them?
The exact cause is not known, but acanthosis nigricans is often seen in association with endocrine disorders such as insulin resistance and PCOS. This is a darkening of the skin ranging from tan to dark brown/black that commonly appears on the back of the neck, armpits, under breasts, in the groin area, and sometimes on the elbows, knees and hands. The skin is usually velvety or rough to the touch. It may look as if it is dirty and could be scrubbed off. Acanthosis nigricans cannot be cured, but individuals may see improvement if hormone balance is restored or weight loss is achieved. Some prescription medications such as Retin-A, 15% urea, alpha hydroxyacid, and salicylic acid may reduce discoloration.
The exact cause is not known, but acanthosis nigricans is often seen in association with endocrine disorders such as insulin resistance and PCOS. This is a darkening of the skin ranging from tan to dark brown/black that commonly appears on the back of the neck, armpits, under breasts, in the groin area, and sometimes on the elbows, knees and hands. The skin is usually velvety or rough to the touch. It may look as if it is dirty and could be scrubbed off. Acanthosis nigricans cannot be cured, but individuals may see improvement if hormone balance is restored or weight loss is achieved. Some prescription medications such as Retin-A, 15% urea, alpha hydroxyacid, and salicylic acid may reduce discoloration. What causes thinning hair on top of the head, and what can be done to prevent it? Thinning hair is associated with elevated androgen levels. Reducing levels and restoring hormone balance may lessen hair loss. It may also be associated with hypothyroidism. Any rapid hair loss should be b
The cause for acanthosis nigricans is still not clearly defined but it appears to be related to insulin resistance. It has been associated with various benign and malignant conditions. Based on the pre-disposing conditions, acanthosis nigricans has been divided into 7 types. Types of acanthosis nigricans (AN) Type Characteristics Obesity-associated acanthosis nigricans Most common type of AN May occur at any age but more common in adulthood Obesity often caused by insulin resistance Syndromic acanthosis nigricans Defined as AN that is associated with a syndrome, e.g. hyperinsulinaemia, Cushing’s syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome, total lipodystrophy Benign acanthosis nigricans Also referred to as acral acanthotic anomaly Thick velvety lesion most prominent over the upper surface of hands and feet in patients who are in otherwise good health Most common in dark-skinned people, especially those of African American descent Drug-induced acanthosis nigricans Uncommon, but AN may be induce
