What does it relate to?

April 29, 2024

According to publications of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) through the School of Medicine ; the Acanthosis nigricans it is a dermatosis characterized by warty plaques with hyperkeratosis, papillomatosis and hyperpigmentation, which give a dark and coarse appearance of the skin; especially in areas that are flexible.

The body sites where it occurs mainly are:

1. Armpits
2. Neck
3. Knuckles
4. Inguinal region

What does it relate to?

In GetQoralHealth and with data from the doctor Liliana Elizabeth , member of the Potosina Society of Dermatology , we present some factors involved with the presence of Acanthosis nigricans.

1. Resistance to insulin. Increasing the concentration of insulin increases the cellular proliferation of fibroblasts, melanocytes and dermal keratinocytes; cells that give skin color and texture.

2. Inheritance and obesity. In the family, grandparents or parents who have this characteristic pigmentation. It is also added as a predisposing factor to obesity.

3. Endocrine diseases. More often diabetes mellitus in which there are elevated levels of blood glucose. Others are also those diseases related to the thyroid gland.

4. Prolonged use of medications. Among them the use of growth hormone, contraceptives or cortisone.

Dark spots with the appearance of "dirty" or "dirt"?

The Acanthosis nigricans It is more common in young people and especially in populations with high rates of diabetes mellitus and obesity. In the case of adolescents and young people, parents can tell their children that they have greater hygiene in these areas; However, the Acanthosis nigricans It has no relation with hygiene habits.

There are 4 types of Acanthosis nigricans; the most frequent at present is the benign form that is associated with obesity and endocrinological alterations such as hyperinsulinism. The malignant form constitutes diseases such as gastric cancer.

The main treatment is based on the modification of habits: eating a balanced diet and exercising. If you already noticed these "dark spots" we recommend you to assist your endocrinologist and dermatologist for a specific and timely diagnosis.