Acanthosis nigricans (ay-can-THO-sis NYG-ruh-cans) is a condition in which the skin thickens and darkens in places.
In acanthosis nigricans, thick, dark, and sometimes streaky patches appear on the skin. The patches are harmless and aren't contagious. They usually affect areas with skin folds, such as the neck, armpits, elbows, knees, and groin, but can appear anywhere on the body. Sometimes, it might seem that the skin is dark because it's dirty, but this is not the case. Scrubbing the skin does not help and can cause irritation.
Acanthosis nigricans is more common in people who have high levels of the hormone insulin in their blood due to insulin resistance. Both conditions occur much more often in those who are overweight and at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes. However, acanthosis nigricans also can be hereditary and occur in kids and teens who are otherwise healthy.
When acanthosis nigricans is suspected, the doctor may order tests to check for insulin resistance or diabetes.
The dark skin patches that appear in acanthosis nigricans are harmless, but people with this condition might have a higher risk for developing diabetes and other health problems.
In those who are overweight, reaching and maintaining a healthier weight through increased physical activity and dietary changes might help improve the skin's appearance.
All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts.
|American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) The AAP is committed to the health and well-being of infants, adolescents, and young adults. The website offers news articles and tips on health for families.|
|American Diabetes Association (ADA) The ADA website includes news, information, tips, and recipes for people with diabetes.|
|American Academy of Family Physicians This site, operated by the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), provides information on family physicians and health care, a directory of family physicians, and resources on health conditions.|
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|It Looks Like There's Dirt on My Skin That Won't Wash Off. What's Going On? Find out what the experts have to say.|
|Acanthosis Nigricans Acanthosis nigricans, or AN, is a darkening and thickening of the skin that can be a sign of certain other medical conditions. Find out more.|
|Acanthosis Nigricans Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a condition that causes the skin to thicken and darken in places. AN is not harmful or contagious, but can be a sign of certain other medical conditions.|
|Type 2 Diabetes: What Is It? Diabetes is a disease that affects how the body uses glucose, a sugar that is the body's main source of fuel. Find out more about a kind of diabetes called type 2 diabetes in this article for kids.|
|Type 2 Diabetes: What Is It? Teens with type 2 diabetes and have to pay close attention to what they eat and do.|
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