ABOUT THE DISEASE
Acanthosis nigricans is the name for dry, dark patches of skin that usually appear in the armpits, neck or groin. It could be a sign of an underlying condition, so it needs to be checked by a GP.
Patches of skin that are darker and thicker than usual, and can appear anywhere on the body.
SYMPTOMS
The patches often appear gradually without any other symptoms.:
- • The patches are dry and feel similar to velvet
- • They`re most common in skin folds, such as the armpits, neck or groin
- • Some people also have tiny growths on the patches.
- • Sometimes the skin may be itchy.
CAUSES
The most common cause of acanthosis nigricans is :
- • being very overweight.
- • type 2 diabetes
- • due to affected hormone levels – such as Cushing`s syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome or an underactive thyroid
- • taking certain medicines – including steroids or hormone treatments like the contraceptive pill
- • In rare cases, cancer – usually stomach cancer
- • In other rare cases, a faulty gene inherited from parents
DIAGNOSIS
- Physical examination
TREATMENT METHODS
ÂThere`s no specific treatment for the patches.
A skin specialist (dermatologist) may be able to suggest treatments to improve their appearance, but finding and treating the cause is usually recommended first.
Once the cause is known, can recommend the best treatment. The patches should fade over time once the cause is treated.
Depending on the cause, may also recommend:
medicine to balance your hormones
medicine to balance your insulin levels
changing your medicine to one that doesn`t cause the patches
If very overweight, may recommend losing weight.
You may also like to learn about:
Overweight
Cushings syndrome
Type 2 Diabetes
Polycystic ovary syndrome
Hypothyroidism
Stomach Cancer