Acanthosis nigricans is a skin condition individualized by dark, thick, velvety skin in body folds and creases. It mainly often affects the armpits, groin and neck. Acanthosis nigricans is a disorder which may start at any age. There are two necessary types of acanthosis: benign and malignant. Though classically described as a sign of internal malignancy, this is very unusual. Benign types, occassionally described as ‘pseudoacanthosis nigricans’ are much more common. The most common cause might be insulin resistance, usually from type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Acanthosis nigricans is most often related with obesity. Most patients with acanthosis nigricans have a higher insulin level than those of the same weight without acanthosis nigricans. Eloquented levels of insulin in most cases probably cause acanthosis nigricans.

The elevated insulin levels in the body actuates insulin receptors in the skin, forcing it to grow abnormally. Other causes are familial, drug-induced, malignant (gastric cancer), idiopathic, and Polycystic ovary syndrome. The most common points for acanthosis nigricans include sides and back of the neck, armpits and groin. AN lesions may also develop on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, nasal and laryngeal mucosa and oesophagus.

People with acanthosis nigricans should be concealed for diabetes and, although rare, cancer. Controlling blood glucose levels through exercise and diet normally improves symptoms. Treatment to just improve the complexion includes Retin-A, 20% urea, alpha hydroxyacids, and lactic or salicylic acid prescriptions.