Aa
I have AN
I am a 27 year old male. I have had Acanthosis Nigricans, (self diagnosed) for as long as I can remember. It is in my armpits and in my groin and it is absolutely unsightly. I have been overweight most of my life but have started to lose weight. At my heaviest I was 311. I am now down to around 280 and hoping to lose 100 more pounds.
I understand that AN is tied to obesity. I have looked all over the web for a straight answer. I just want to know once and for all. If I lose weight, will this unsightly brown leathery skin go away? Will creams work or are they a scam? Will laser ablation work? If all else fails can i have that part of my skin removed? I just want it gone in the worst way.
I understand that AN is tied to obesity. I have looked all over the web for a straight answer. I just want to know once and for all. If I lose weight, will this unsightly brown leathery skin go away? Will creams work or are they a scam? Will laser ablation work? If all else fails can i have that part of my skin removed? I just want it gone in the worst way.
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi,
Acanthosis nigricans often fades if the underlying cause is known and treated appropriately. I would still recommend that you have this evaluated by your doctor for proper management. The application of your present medications may be futile if the underlying cause is not known.
Acanthosis nigricans often fades if the underlying cause is known and treated appropriately. I would still recommend that you have this evaluated by your doctor for proper management. The application of your present medications may be futile if the underlying cause is not known.
I am already using South Beach Skin Solutions lightening gel for sensitive areas. I'm 2 days into it and supposed to see results in about 2 weeks. But my mom got me a tube of hydroquinone stuff so I'll try that too.
But my question is: If/When I get to my goal weight, will the dark skin be completely gone or will it still be kind of visible?
But my question is: If/When I get to my goal weight, will the dark skin be completely gone or will it still be kind of visible?
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi,
Diagnosis of acanthosis nigricans is by clinical examination and some tests such as skin biopsy, blood tests, endoscopy and x-rays to rule out diabetes or cancer as the cause. Correcting the underlying cause results in resolution of the lesions. If this is obesity associated AN, losing weight is important. Treatments considered are used primarily to improve cosmetic appearance and include topical retinoids, dermabrasion and laser therapy. This link may help: http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1102488-treatment
Take care and regards.
Diagnosis of acanthosis nigricans is by clinical examination and some tests such as skin biopsy, blood tests, endoscopy and x-rays to rule out diabetes or cancer as the cause. Correcting the underlying cause results in resolution of the lesions. If this is obesity associated AN, losing weight is important. Treatments considered are used primarily to improve cosmetic appearance and include topical retinoids, dermabrasion and laser therapy. This link may help: http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1102488-treatment
Take care and regards.
I know it is annoying to keep bumping the post, but I really need an answer on this. Please...anyone, anyone at all with knowledge of this condition. Please help me on this. This skin thing is killing my self esteem.
Have an Answer?
You are reading content posted in the Dermatology Community
Learn to identify and prevent bites from summer’s most common pests.
Doctors argue for legislation to curb this dangerous teen trend in the latest Missouri Medicine report.
10 ways to keep your skin healthy all winter long
How to get rid of lumpy fat on your arms, hips, thighs and bottom
Diet “do’s” and “don’ts” for healthy, radiant skin.
Images of rashes caused by common skin conditions
