Acanthosis nigricans is a skin disease whose main characteristic is that it causes some areas of the skin to turn dark. It usually causes dark spots to appear around the joints and in areas of the body that have many folds (knuckles, armpits, knees and neck). Sometimes it also occurs in the palm of the hand, in the groin or on the lips. It is not an infectious or contagious disease and almost never causes pain.
Causes of acanthosis nigricans
Obesity in children
Acanthosis nigricans can affect everyone, but it appears more frequently in children with high insulin levels and obesity or overweight. Sometimes, this disease is a consequence of another such as cancer, endocrinological disorders, diabetes and obesity. Genetic components are not ruled out. And it can also be caused by the use of certain medications.
Symptoms of acanthosis nigricans
The skin changes and darkens
The symptoms of acanthosis nigricans are darkening of the skin, which also presents a velvety appearance in the folds of the body, especially in the armpits, and on the neck.
Diagnosis of acanthosis nigricans
skin biopsy
The doctor usually identifies the disease by observing the skin. Sometimes he also requests a blood test.
Acanthosis nigricans treatment and medication
The skin returns to its original color
There is no single treatment. Normally, acanthosis nigricans only involves changes in the thickness and color of the skin. In many children, acanthosis nigricans does not even require treatment and the skin slowly returns to its original color. The most advisable thing is to maintain an adequate weight and do physical exercise.
Prevention of acanthosis nigricans
Exercise and diet
It has not been 100% proven, but doctors recommend a healthy, balanced diet and daily exercise to minimize the effects of this disease that cannot be prevented.
#Acanthosis #nigricans #symptoms #treatments #difference
