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Acanthosis nigricans: Difference between revisions
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Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a skin disorder in which there is darker, thick, velvety skin in body folds and creases sometimes also with [[skin tags]] or [[chordons]]. | |||
[[File:Acanthosis-nigricans.jpeg|thumb|right|Acanthosis nigricans]] | [[File:Acanthosis-nigricans.jpeg|thumb|right|Acanthosis nigricans]] | ||
==What causes Acanthosis Nigricans?== | |||
Acanthosis Nigricans is caused by an underlying process that also causes significant weight gain and increases the risk of diabetes called insulin resistance. | Acanthosis Nigricans is caused by an underlying process that also causes significant weight gain and increases the risk of diabetes called insulin resistance. | ||
==What are the risk factors for Acanthosis Nigricans?== | ==What are the risk factors for Acanthosis Nigricans?== | ||
Having a diet high in unrefined carbohydrates is a big risk factor for Acanthosis that is associated with obesity and insulin resistance. Certain other endocrine problems such as hypothyroidism, acromegaly, Cushing's disease may also be associated with Acanthosis. | Having a diet high in unrefined carbohydrates is a big risk factor for Acanthosis that is associated with obesity and insulin resistance. Certain other endocrine problems such as hypothyroidism, acromegaly, Cushing's disease may also be associated with Acanthosis. | ||
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[[File:Weight-loss-success-stories.jpeg|W8MD weight loss success stories|thumb]] | [[File:Weight-loss-success-stories.jpeg|W8MD weight loss success stories|thumb]] | ||
==How is Acanthosis Nigricans diagnosed?== | ==How is Acanthosis Nigricans diagnosed?== | ||
Acanthosis nigricans is typically diagnosed clinically. Rarely, a biopsy might be required. | Acanthosis nigricans is typically diagnosed clinically. Rarely, a biopsy might be required. | ||
==Can Acanthois Nigricans lead development of skin tags or chordons?== | ==Can Acanthois Nigricans lead development of skin tags or chordons?== | ||
In some people, acanthosis nigricans can lead to small outgrowths of skin called skin tags or chordons. | In some people, acanthosis nigricans can lead to small outgrowths of skin called skin tags or chordons. | ||
==Can W8MD help me with acanthosis or skin tags?== | ==Can W8MD help me with acanthosis or skin tags?== | ||
Yes, at W8MD, we address not only acanthosis and insulin resistance that causes it, but we can also freeze off the skin tags and most insurances cover removal of these unsightly skin tags. | Yes, at W8MD, we address not only acanthosis and insulin resistance that causes it, but we can also freeze off the skin tags and most insurances cover removal of these unsightly skin tags. | ||
Can acanthosis nigricans go away? | Can acanthosis nigricans go away? | ||
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==How do I know if I am insulin resistant?== | ==How do I know if I am insulin resistant?== | ||
You can use W8MD's insulin resistance calculator to determine if you are [[insulin resistance|insulin resistant]]. | You can use W8MD's insulin resistance calculator to determine if you are [[insulin resistance|insulin resistant]]. | ||
[[File:Acanthosis-nigricans4.jpg|thumb]] | [[File:Acanthosis-nigricans4.jpg|thumb]] | ||
==What are the symptoms of acanthosis nigricans?== | |||
A: The symptoms of acanthosis nigricans include dark, thickened, velvety patches of skin, usually in skin folds such as the neck, armpits, and groin. The affected skin may also have a slightly rough texture. | |||
==Who is at risk of developing acanthosis nigricans?== | |||
A: Acanthosis nigricans is more common in people who are overweight or obese, have type 2 diabetes, or have a family history of the condition. It is also more common in certain ethnic groups, such as African Americans and Hispanics. | |||
==How is acanthosis nigricans diagnosed?== | |||
A: Acanthosis nigricans is diagnosed based on the appearance of the affected skin. Blood tests may be done to check for underlying medical conditions that may be causing the condition. | |||
==Can acanthosis nigricans be treated?== | |||
A: Treatment for acanthosis nigricans involves addressing any underlying medical conditions that may be causing the condition, as well as making lifestyle changes such as losing weight and exercising regularly. Topical treatments and medications may also be used to improve the appearance of the affected skin. | |||
==Is acanthosis nigricans a sign of cancer?== | |||
A: In rare cases, acanthosis nigricans may be a sign of an underlying cancer, such as stomach or liver cancer. However, most cases of acanthosis nigricans are not associated with cancer. | |||
==Can acanthosis nigricans be prevented?== | |||
A: Acanthosis nigricans can be prevented or minimized by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding medications that may cause the condition. It is also important to manage any underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or hormonal disorders. | |||
==How can W8MD help me or my loved ones if they have Acanthosis nigricans?== | ==How can W8MD help me or my loved ones if they have Acanthosis nigricans?== | ||
