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Addressing the cardiovascular implications of acanthosis nigricans: what a dermatologist needs to know

Evan Eggiman1, Steve Feldman, Jamy Ard

  • 1Campbell University School of Medicine, Leon Levine Hall of Medical Sciences. e_eggiman0716@Email.campbell.edu,sfeldman@wakehealth.edu.

Dermatology Online Journal
|December 16, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a skin condition linked to higher risks of insulin resistance and cardiovascular disease. Early recognition of AN prompts crucial metabolic assessments for better patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Cardiology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a skin condition often underestimated as a marker for cardiovascular disorders.
  • Recognizing AN's significance beyond cosmetic concerns is vital for enhancing patient health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review Acanthosis Nigricans (AN) and its associated cardiovascular risks.
  • To inform dermatologists about the importance of identifying AN as an indicator of underlying conditions.

Main Methods:

  • Literature search conducted using PubMed with keywords: "Acanthosis Nigricans," "hyperinsulinemia," "cardiovascular disease," "diabetes," and "insulin resistance."
  • Inclusion criteria focused on studies linking AN to cardiovascular risks, particularly concerning obesity and insulin resistance.

Main Results:

  • Individuals with AN showed a 2.6-fold increased likelihood of insulin resistance.
  • AN proved more effective than other risk factors in identifying individuals at risk for type two diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Conclusions:

  • Identifying the link between AN and cardiovascular disease enables early intervention strategies.
  • Focusing on weight management and metabolic disorders associated with AN can improve both cosmetic and cardiovascular health.
  • Dermatologists should consider AN a key indicator for referring patients for metabolic disease assessment.
Abstract

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