This image displays a close-up of the neck showing the typical velvety skin thickening seen in acanthosis nigricans. Acanthosis nigricans, most commonly, is noticed at the armpits and/or neck as a slightly thickened color change, which is sometimes described as appearing "velvety." The darkened color and skin thickening is sometimes subtle in mild and early cases of acanthosis nigricans, as seen here. In addition to the subtle darkening and thickening of the armpit skin caused by acanthosis nigricans, striae (stretch marks) can be seen. In this image of acanthosis nigricans, the patient has very pronounced skin thickening such that the folds appear to have deep cracks and a noticeable texture in comparison to the surrounding skin. This image displays acanthosis nigricans, which affects the body folds, most frequently the neck and armpits. This image displays a skin fold with a rough, "velvety" appearance typical of acanthosis nigricans. The neck displays the skin thickening and dark color of acanthosis nigricans. The thickening on the skin of the neck from acanthosis nigricans often has a "furrowed" appearance.
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Acanthosis Nigricans:
Information for adults

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Picture of Acanthosis Nigricans: This image displays a close-up of the neck showing the typical velvety skin thickening seen in acanthosis nigricans. Divider line
This image displays a close-up of the neck showing the typical velvety skin thickening seen in acanthosis nigricans.
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Who's At Risk
Acanthosis nigricans can affect individuals of any age, including children and those of any ethnic background. However, it is more common in adults and in people with darker skin. Males and females are affected equally.

Groups of people who commonly develop acanthosis nigricans:
  • Overweight or obese persons
  • People with endocrine (glandular) abnormalities
  • Persons taking certain medications (for example, oral contraceptives, niacinamide, corticosteroids)
  • Kidney transplant patients
  • People with internal malignancy, especially stomach cancer (very rare cause of acanthosis nigricans)
Last Modified: 18 Oct 2007

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