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ACANTHOSIS NIGRICANS CAUSES

What Are The Causes Of Acanthosis Nigricans?

In its true self, Acanthosis nigricans is not an infection, disease or health disorder. Instead, it is a warning sign of an emerging health problem. Acanthosis nigricans can be caused by the following:

  • Cancer

In some uncommon cases, Acanthosis nigricans can be caused as a result of a growing cancerous tumour in an internal organ such as the liver, colon or stomach. Examples of such cancers are gastric adenocarcinoma and other carcinomas lymphomas.

  • Insulin Resistance

Insulin is a hormone that allows the body to process sugar. It is secreted by the pancreas. The inability of the body to use insulin effectively has been related to Acanthosis nigricans. This usually leads to two types of diabetes since the body cannot use sugar.

  • The Use of Certain Medications and Supplements

Consistently taking a high dosage of corticosteroids, birth control pills, niacin, prednisone and some bodybuilding supplements can lead to the development of Acanthosis nigricans.

  • Genetics

Some people develop this condition from birth. However, some individuals develop it later during their childhood or adulthood.

  • Hormonal Variations

Acanthosis nigricans may be experienced by individuals with abnormal hormone issues such as ovarian cysts or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), hypothyroidism, or problems with the adrenal gland.

Some Threat Factors of Acanthosis Nigricans

People are at different risks of having Acanthosis nigricans and these risks factors include:

  • Ethnicity

According to several researched carried out by scientists, Acanthosis nigricans is more associated with individuals of Hispanic, Native American, Caribbean, or African lineage.

  • Obesity

Individuals who are obese are most likely resistant to insulin and probably have diabetes. According to research, an estimate of 74% of obese individuals have Acanthosis nigricans, and it is higher in females who have obesity-related Acanthosis nigricans.

  • Genetics

Individuals whose family member(s) has had Acanthosis nigricans tend to develop the condition also.

When to See a Skin Doctor?

It is necessary to visit your Dermatologist London when you notice darkening and thickening of your skin along with other symptoms of Acanthosis nigricans. These skin changes can be gradual and may appear harmless, but they can be a warning sign of an impending medical condition that should be attended to.

There may be cases where your skin changes and dark patches have no correspondence with any underlying medical condition; in such situations, our professional Dermatology Clinic London will help you diagnose the issue. All you need to do is visit our office at dermatologist Harley Street London or give us a call on 020 71833648 today!

Our Dermatology Clinic may perform some tests to diagnose the condition of your Acanthosis nigricans. These tests could include:

  • X-rays
  • Biopsy; testing a small piece of skin under the microscope
  • Blood tests