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Study of Anatomical Models
Why does this condition occur?
The most common cause of acanthosis nigricans is insulin resistance . Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that allows cells to use glucose from the blood as a source of energy .
Sleep disorders
When the body becomes less sensitive to this hormone, the pancreas responds by producing increasingly larger amounts of insulin to compensate. These elevated blood levels can stimulate accelerated growth of skin cells, leading to the characteristic thickened, darkened plaques.
In other words, the skin becomes a mirror of what’s happening in the body’s metabolism. Therefore, detecting these spots early can be a valuable opportunity to act before a more serious condition develops.
Improve sleep
Risk factors
Several factors increase the likelihood of developing acanthosis nigricans. Among the most important are:
Skin disorders
- Overweight or obesity : this is the factor most associated with this condition.
- Prediabetes or type 2 diabetes: alterations in glucose management are directly related.
- Family history of diabetes: genetics plays a determining role.
- Hormonal disorders: such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is also related to insulin resistance.
- Use of certain medications: some drugs, such as corticosteroids or high-dose birth control pills, can promote their appearance.
- Other medical conditions: In rare cases, it may be associated with endocrine problems or even certain types of tumors.
Can flaxen also have it?
Yes. Acanthosis nigricans is not exclusive to adults. It is increasingly being detected in children and adolescents, especially those who are overweight or obese . In these cases, the presence of dark patches is considered an important indicator for assessing the risk of type 2 diabetes at an early age, something that was very uncommon decades ago but is now observed more regularly.
Consult a Dermatologist
