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Pigmented and thickened axillary folds
Warren Weightman1, Patrick J J Phillips
1Dermatology, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woodville, South Australia. patrick.phillips@nwahs.sa.gov.au
Australian Family Physician
|October 11, 2007
Summary
Acanthosis nigricans causes dark, thickened skin, often in body folds. Obesity is a common trigger, and managing weight can improve skin appearance.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Acanthosis nigricans is a skin condition characterized by dark, velvety thickening of the skin.
- It commonly affects body folds and creases, such as the neck, armpits (axillae), and groin.
Observation:
- A 45-year-old male presented with a 12-month history of dark, thickened skin in both axillae.
- The patient had a body mass index (BMI) of 31.2 kg/m², indicating moderate obesity.
- No other medical conditions or medications were reported, and there was no family history of similar skin disorders.
Findings:
- The patient's presentation is consistent with acanthosis nigricans.
- Moderate obesity (BMI 31.2 kg/m²) is identified as a potential contributing factor.
Implications:
- Identifying obesity as a likely cause is crucial for treatment planning.
- Weight management strategies are recommended to improve skin appearance and potentially resolve acanthosis nigricans.
- Further investigation for underlying endocrine disorders may be warranted in some cases, though not suggested by this patient's history.
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