Acanthosis Nigricans Causes

 The abnormal growth of skin cells in the epidermis results in Acanthosis Nigricans. This growth normally happens when higher levels of insulin are found in the bloodstream. In very rare cases, the unusual reproduction of skin cells could also be due to medications, other medical conditions, or cancer. 


1. Medications

Doses beyond the recommended level of some medications can trigger acanthosis nigricans. The medications are:


Birth control pills

Supplementary insulin injection

Nicotinic acid

Certain bodybuilding supplements

Oestrogen

Protease inhibitors

These medications disrupt the insulin levels in the body. Once the medications are stopped, the skin attains its normal colour.


2. Excess Insulin in the Bloodstream

When there is excess insulin in your bloodstream, the skin cells in the epidermis reproduce abnormally, causing acanthosis nigricans. This happens when your body develops resistance to insulin. The food you eat is converted into a sugar called glucose by your body. Insulin is necessary for the cells to use glucose for energy. Insulin should allow glucose to enter your cells for them to use glucose for energy. A part of the glucose is used for energy while your body stores the rest of it. 


The body develops resistance to insulin if you are overweight. Though the body produces insulin, it cannot be used efficiently. This creates glucose buildup, which can result in excess glucose as well as insulin in your bloodstream. Excess insulin in the bloodstream leads to the rapid growth of skin cells. Excess melanin creates a patch that is darker than the skin surrounding it. The presence of these dark patches is an indicator that you may be prone to diabetes.


Other Acanthosis Nigricans Causes

The other potential Acanthosis Nigricans causes are:


Genetics

Autoimmune disorders like Hashimotoi’s Thyroiditis or Sjogren’s Disease

Deficiency in thyroid hormones

Gastric adenocarcinoma or stomach cancer

Pituitary gland disorder

High doses of niacin




Diagnosis of Acanthosis Nigricans

Acanthosis Nigricans is usually detected during a skin examination. However, your doctor may want to identify the underlying causes like insulin resistance or diabetes and may suggest the following:


Blood glucose test or fasting insulin tests

May review your medications to check if they are triggers. You should inform your doctor about any vitamins or bodybuilding supplements you are using besides prescription medicines for proper evaluation

Sometimes, a skin biopsy may be suggested to rule out other probable causes

Acanthosis Nigricans Treatment Options

There is no specific Acanthosis Nigricans treatment as it is not a disease but a warning sign for any other probable medical condition like diabetes. Diagnosing the underlying cause and treating the same will work as a treatment method for this condition as well.


If being overweight is causing acanthosis nigricans, then regular exercise and diet to maintain a healthy weight will be the treatment method. Also, medications will be prescribed to manage blood sugar levels. If the condition is due to any of the medications or supplements you are using, your doctor may suggest discontinuing them or may prescribe alternatives. When the cause is identified, and appropriate treatment is given, the dark patches will eventually fade away.


For individuals who are concerned about the appearance of dark patches, cosmetic treatments will be suggested. It may include using skin lighteners, laser therapy, or oral acne medications. However, these treatments will only work on the appearance and will not help cure the condition. 


Conclusion

Acanthosis Nigricans is not a disease. It is a skin condition that is triggered by excess insulin in your bloodstream. This could be due to insulin resistance developed due to obesity. When insulin produced by your body is not effectively utilised by cells to take glucose to derive energy, there will be a buildup of glucose in your bloodstream. This will result in the rapid reproduction of skin cells that cause dark, velvety patches in skin folds. 


The development of Acanthosis Nigricans can be an indicator of enhanced risk of diabetes. Early recognition of the underlying cause and treatment is crucial to prevent progression into serious health issues. 

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