Acanthosis Nigricans is a common skin disease that usually present in the posterior and lateral folds of the neck , the axilla , groin , umbilicus , and other areas. Acanthosis nigricans may begin at any age and its causes are still unknown. This is most often associated with being overweight. Sometimes acanthosis nigricans is congenital or due to an endocrine (glandular) disorder.

Causes of Acanthosis Nigricans

The exact cause of Acanthosis Nigricans is not known but some of the causes is:

Drugs, particularly hormones such as human growth hormone or oral contraceptives ("the pill"), can cause acanthosis nigricans.
Certain medications - such as human growth hormone, oral contraceptives and large doses of niacin - can contribute to the condition.
People with Cancers of the gastrointestinal or genitourinary tracts or with lymphoma can also develop severe cases of acanthosis nigricans.
Acanthosis nigricans is sometimes associated with being overweight.
Many hormone problems, endocrine disorders or tumors may cause acanthosis nigricans.
Other causes include chronic hepatitis and ingestion of large doses of niacin.

Symptoms of Acanthosis Nigricans

The dark patches becomes rough.
The affected areas rarely produces a itching.
Painless area of darkened, slightly raised skin.
Skin changes appear slowly
Rough areas or increased skin markings usually on the back and sides of the neck.
Abnormally increased coloration (hyperpigmentation) and "velvety" thickening (hyperkeratosis) of the skin
Light-brown-to-black

Treatment of Acanthosis Nigricans

After the development of Acanthosis nigricans a medical work-up should be done so that it can be determined whether or not the patient has a gland (endocrine) disorder or a tumor.
Retin-A ,15% urea,alpha hydroxyacid , and salicylic acid are general prescriptions from the doctors for improving the condition of the patient.
Correct hyperinsulinaemia: The amount of insulin can be controlled through diet and medication.
Excise or treat underlying tumour.
Stop offending medicines in drug-induced acanthosis nigricans.
Losing weight for those having overweight may improve condition.

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