Acanthosis nigricans
Introduction
Acanthosis nigricans is the medical term for darkened, thickened patches of skin that usually develop in the armpit and around the groin and neck. It's not a condition in itself, but can be a sign of an underlying health problem. These underlying conditions aren't usually serious, although occasionally acanthosis nigricans can besign of Predictive genetic test for cancer risk genes .
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on
Introduction
Acanthosis nigricans is the medical term for darkened, thickened patches of skin that usually develop in the armpit and around the groin and neck. It's not a condition in itself, but can be a sign of an underlying health problem. These underlying conditions aren't usually serious, although occasionally acanthosis nigricans can besign of Predictive genetic test for cancer risk genes .
Signs and Symptoms
Dark, velvety patches. If you have a canthosis nigricans, you'll have thickened, brownish-grey or black patches of skin. The patches will be dry and rough, feeling similar to velvet. They may also be itchy. You may also have lots of tiny finger-like growths from the patches. This is known as papillomatosis.
When to see a doctor if you have acanthosis nigricans?
Acanthosis nigricans is usually harmless, but as it can be a sign of something serious it's a good idea to see your doctor if you think you have it. They may suspect acanthosis nigricans just by looking at your skin. If the cause isn't clear, you may have blood tests to check your blood sugar or hormone levels, and you might need additional tests such asan endoscopy or X-ray .
What causes acanthosis nigricans?
Acanthosis nigricans sometimes occurs in people who are otherwise in good health, particularly dark-skinned people of African descent. However, in most cases it's a sign of an underlying problem or condition such as obesity , diabetes or abnormal hormone levels. Some of the main causes of acanthosis nigricans are: Obesity, Syndromes and hormone problems, Medication, Genes, Cancer.
How acanthosis nigricans is treated
Treatment for acanthosis nigricans aims to correct the underlying cause of your symptoms. This will usually cure theacanthosis nigricans or significantly improve the appearance of your skin. Treatments that may be recommended include: losing weight; taking medication to correct your hormone levels; switching to a different medication; surgery, chemotherapy , or radiotherapy for cancer.
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