Pre-Diabetes Info Center
Pre-diabetes.com owned and operated by Islets of Hope, a certified Health on the Net website that donates its profits to diabetes charities.
Pre-Diabetes Glossary and Definitions
Life Without Bread
First Sentence: CONTRARY TO CURRENT POPULAR WISDOM, it is carbohydrates, not fat, that contribute to many dietary related diseases.
The New Glucose Revolution
Pocket Guide to Metabolic Syndrome
The latest medical research clearly confirms that the glycemic index (GI)—an easy-to-understand ranking of foods based on their effect on blood glucose levels—is vitally important for heart health and the prevention of the Metabolic Syndrome (aka Syndrome X and insulin resistance). Slowly... Read more
Pre-Diabetes
Pre-diabetes Illustrated Medical Encyclopedia
Filed in: Pre-Diabetes Medical Encyclopedia Definition: Acanthosis Nigricans (AN)
What is acanthosis nigricans?Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is (usually) a benign skin condition typically characterized by hyperpigmentation (darkening of skin pigment) often accompanied by a velvety change in texture of the skin that is affected. Acanthosis nigricans is often seen in obese patients with insulin resistance which is often associated with pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes. If you see changes in skin color or texture it is important to see your doctor. A dermatologist may be able to diagnose acanthosis nigricans, but to diagnose insulin resistance you should see an endocrinologist. |
|
||||||
What parts of the body does acanthosis nigricans affect?It most commonly appears in body folds like under the arms, groin, and back of the knees. But AN can appear almost anywhere on the body including the scalp, hands, elbows, and nipples. What causes acanthosis nigricans?AN is most often caused by hyperinsulinemia (elevated levels of insulin) due to insulin resistance. AN is most commonly seen in obese people but can occur in any patient that is insulin resistant. AN may be diagnosed by a dermatologist when a patient mistakes AN for another skin condition. AN is almost always benign (non-cancerous) but in rare cases can be serious. Skin tags often appear in the same patients who have AN. |
A milder case of acanthosis nigricans (AN) on the nape of the neck. AN can also appear on the groin, under breasts, chest, and even on the scalp. |
Acanthosis nigricans in the underarm area may become quite dark but can also appear like a mild, yellowish-tan stain. |
AN can sometimes appear on the elbows (or knees). It may even be mistaken for psoriasis or appear in conjunction with psoriasis. |
Acanthosis Nigricans
AN can also appear on the palms and back of the hands. It may even be mistaken for psoriasis or appear in conjunction with psoriasis. |
