A rare condition in which thickened dark patches of skin appear in the groin, armpits, neck, and other skin folds. The condition may occur in young people as a genetic disorder or as the result of an endocrine disorder such as Cushing’s syndrome. It also occurs in people with carcinomas of the lung and other organs.
Pseudoacanthosis nigricans is a much more common condition, usually seen in dark-complexioned people who are overweight. In this form, the skin in fold areas is both thicker and darker than the surrounding skin, and there is usually excessive sweating in affected areas. The condition may improve with weight loss.
Acanthosis nigricans is a darkly pigmented verrucous skin change, usually occurring around the neck and axilla. It may be inherited but is most commonly acquired, and is associated with adenocarcinoma – usually of the stomach (see CANCER) – and certain hormonal disorders
The group of arthropod insects that include the parasitic MITES and TICKS.
n. an increase in the number of *prickle cells in the innermost layer of the epidermis, leading to thickening of the epidermis. Acanthosis nigricans is characterized by papillomatous growths, mainly in the armpits, neck, and groin, giving the skin a pigmented appearance and a velvety thickened texture. It may be associated with internal malignancy. Pseudoacanthosis nigricans is more common and is associated with obesity and *insulin resistance.... acanthosis
Health Encyclopedia