Acanthosis Nigricans

Acanthosis nigricans is a common skin pigmentation disorder. The sign of acanthosis nigricans are usually found as dark patches of skin with a thick, velvety texture. It is usually found in body folds, such as the posterior and lateral folds of the neck, the armpits, groin, navel, forehead, and other areas.

Acanthosis nigricans is not contagious. It is not harmful. Sometimes, it is a warning sign of a health problem that requires medical attention Most people who have acanthosis nigricans have also become resistant to insulin. Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas that allows your body to process sugar. Insulin resistance is what eventually causes type 2 diabetes.

Disease statistics: In 2002-03, 0.001% (178) of hospital consultant episodes were for acanthosis nigricans in england. 100% of hospital consultant episodes for acanthosis nigricans required hospital admission and 44% of hospital consultant episodes for acanthosis nigricans were for men and 56% were women, 3% required emergency services. 51 is the mean age of occurance, 54% occured in 15-59 year olds and 15% in over 75.