What is Acanthosis Nigricans?

Acanthosis nigricans is a disorder that is due to increase of melanin. In other words we can say that it is a form of hyper-pigmentation. In this conditions lesions get formed which are darker than the skin. The lesions are velvety when touched. Such lesions can be basically seen in the folds of the neck, legs, elbow, armpits, groin, and belly button, breasts etc. the condition develops lowly and may not show any other symptom except for skin change.

The exact reason of Acanthosis nigricans remains unknown. But studies reveal that the condition can be genetically inherited. It can be outcome of diabetes, cancer, obesity or due to drugs. They can be dangerous too. Even healthy people can be affected from it. The most common people are of African descent. Diabetic patient are more prone to develop the condition. Also consumption of growth hormone, contraceptives can also cause the condition to happen. Lymphoma patients, people with genitourinary tracts can develop the condition in severe manner.

The condition may signal high insulin level in body. Insulin is generated in pancreas of the body. The high insulin levels means that the body is controlling the insulin produced. The pancreas now generates more insulin than required. Such persons may develop the chances of developing diabetes in future.

Screenings for the condition can be done to check the level of insulin in the body. With proper diet and exercising the insulin levels could be controlled to normal level. The aim lies in treating the disease process. The treatment of Acanthosis nigricans is generally done for cosmetic reasons. By checking hyper insulinemia the condition can be rectified. In case the condition is developing due to medication, then the condition may diminish by giving up the particular combination of medicine. But in case it is due to cancer than all the treatments may not be helpful. In case of obesity Acanthosis nigricans, can be controlled by weight management.

It can be controlled by topical application and with oral drugs too. Certain side effects of medication include like development of stretch marks, skin thinning etc.