Sign in  |  Register

Illustrated Health Encyclopedia
[an error occurred while processing this directive]

Ency. home > Disease > A > Acanthosis nigricans

Acanthosis nigricans    See images

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment

Definition:

A skin disorder characterized by dark, thick, velvety skin in body folds and creases.

Causes and Risks

Acanthosis nigricans can affect otherwise healthy people or it can be associated with other medical problems. Some cases are genetically inherited.

Obesity may produce acanthosis nigricans, as can many endocrine (hormonal) disorders. It is frequently found in people with diabetes.

Some drugs, particularly hormones like 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 this condition.

Ency. home > Disease > A > Acanthosis nigricans

[an error occurred while processing this directive]