Acanthosis Nigricans
Introduction
A skin disease called acanthosis nigricans is characterised by thick, velvety, dark patches of skin. Additionally, the affected epidermis may have a rough texture and feel slightly raised. The neck, armpits, groin, and hands are just a few areas of the body where this disease can manifest. Insulin resistance, which can be a symptom of type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes, is frequently linked to acanthosis nigricans. Other medical problems like obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and particular medications can also contribute to it. Although acanthosis nigricans is not detrimental in and of itself, it may indicate a more serious medical issue that needs to be treated.
Pathophysiology
This thickening is brought on by an increase in the quantity of keratinocytes, or skin cells, in the basal layer of the skin. Acanthosis has a complex pathophysiology that can be brought on by a number of causes. Insulin resistance, which is frequently observed in individuals with type 2 diabetes or obesity, is one of the primary causes of acanthosis. Acanthosis can also be brought on by exposure to ultraviolet light, such as that from the sun. A healthcare provider will typically identify acanthosis after physically examining the affected area. A skin biopsy, which entails taking a small sample of the affected skin and examining it under a microscope, is usually used to confirm the diagnosis. The medical professional will usually check for thickening of the skin during the physical examination, which may be accompanied by darkening or discoloration. The body parts that feel friction or pressure the most frequently affected by acanthosis are the neck, underarms, groin, and skin folds. The skin biopsy usually reveals finger-like projections of the epidermis into the dermis or thickening of the epidermis with elongated rete ridges.
Signs and Symptoms
Acanthosis is a disease that causes the skin to thicken and may also cause discoloration or darkening. Depending on the underlying cause of the disease and the part of the body affected, acanthosis symptoms can change
- Skin thickness: Acanthosis is characterised by skin thickening, which may be palpable or obvious to the eye.
- Darkening or discoloration: The affected skin may turn darker or take on a distinct hue from the surrounding skin. This may be especially obvious in places on the body where there is pressure or friction, such as the neck, groin, underarms, and skin creases.
- Itching or irritation: Acanthosis occasionally results in itching or irritation of the epidermis.
- Bad odour: Acanthosis can occasionally produce a bad odour in regions of the body where there is excessive wetness and sweating, such as the groyne or underarms.
Acanthosis frequently signals an underlying medical condition, such as type 2 diabetes or hormonal imbalances, which is why it’s essential to keep in mind.
How do Dermatologists treat Acanthosis Nigricans?
The severity and location of the thickened skin, as well as the underlying source of the disease, all affect how acanthosis is treated. Treatment options could include a mix of lifestyle changes, topical medications, and management of any underlying medical problems.
Here are some common treatments that dermatologists may use to treat acanthosis:
- Cosmetic medications: To help lessen the thickness and darkening of the afflicted skin, dermatologists may recommend cosmetic drugs such as retinoids or corticosteroids. To help exfoliate the skin and lessen scaling, topical lotions or ointments containing salicylic acid or urea may also be used.
- Lifestyle changes: Lifestyle changes can help lessen friction and pressure on the affected skin, such as keeping a healthy weight and avoiding wearing tight clothing. The severity of acanthosis can also be lessened by avoiding exposure to ultraviolet rays, such as by donning protective garments and applying sunscreen.
- Management of underlying medical conditions: If an underlying medical condition, such as diabetes or a hormonal imbalance, contributed to the development of acanthosis, that condition must be treated in order to control the skin signs.
- Laser or light treatment: To help reduce the thickness and darkening of the afflicted skin, dermatologists may use laser or light therapy. These treatments function by concentrating on and destroying the extra pigment in the epidermis.