Acanthosis nigricans

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Acanthosis nigricans - close-up

Acanthosis nigricans on the hand

Because acanthosis nigricans usually only changes the skin's appearance, no treatment is needed.

It is important, however, to treat any underlying medical problem that may be causing these skin changes. When acanthosis nigricans is related to obesity, losing weight often improves the condition.

Acanthosis nigricans often fades if the cause can be found and treated.

Call your health care provider if you develop areas of thick, dark, velvety skin.

Review Date: 09/11/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; and Roy Colven, MD, Dermatologist, Associate Professor of Medicine, University of Washington Medical School, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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