Acanthosis Nigricans: Pointer of Endocrine Entities

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Disorders
• Dermatology

Background:

• Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is frequently associated with insulin resistance (IR).
• Metabolic complications like obesity, diabetes mellitus (DM), and metabolic syndrome (MS), with or without polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), are often linked to AN.
• The prevalence of AN varies widely, with increasing rates observed in younger populations with obesity and MS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review Acanthosis Nigricans from an endocrine and metabolic perspective.
• To focus on the association of AN with insulin resistance and its related metabolic complications.
• To highlight AN as a potential non-invasive marker for underlying metabolic conditions.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of English-language publications from the last 5 years on PubMed.
• Analysis of studies focusing on AN in relation to insulin resistance, obesity, DM, MS, and PCOS.
• Inclusion of data on AN prevalence, clinical presentation, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies.

Main Results:

• AN prevalence ranges from 4.5% to 74% (or higher), with equal gender distribution.
• Common sites for AN include the neck, axilla, and knuckles; unusual locations like the face have also been reported.
• AN is associated with Type 1 and Type 2 DM, and metabolic complications in females with PCOS. Lifestyle interventions and medications like metformin are key management strategies.

Conclusions:

• Awareness of AN is crucial for prompt recognition of underlying endocrine and metabolic conditions.
• Acanthosis nigricans serves as a valuable non-invasive marker for insulin resistance and associated metabolic spectrum disorders in both children and adults.
• Identifying AN can significantly improve endocrine and metabolic assessments and patient management.