Acanthosis nigricans

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Acanthosis nigricans on the hand

Overview	Symptoms	Treatment	Prevention

Acanthosis nigricans

Definition

Acanthosis nigricans is a skin disorder characterized by dark, thick, velvety skin in body folds and creases.

Causes

Acanthosis nigricans can affect otherwise healthy people, or it can be associated with medical problems. Some cases are genetically inherited. It is most common among people of African descent.

Obesity can lead to acanthosis nigricans, as can many endocrine disorders. It is frequently found in people with diabetes.

Some drugs, particularly hormones such as human growth hormone or oral contraceptives ("the pill"), can also cause acanthosis nigricans.

People with cancers of the gastrointestinal or genitourinary tracts or with lymphoma can also develop severe cases of acanthosis nigricans.

Review Date: 7/2/2004
Reviewed By: Jonathan Kantor, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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