Is acanthosis nigricans genetic?

Acanthosis nigricans is most commonly found in people of African descent and some cases are genetically inherited as an autosomal dominant trait. (Only one parent needs to have an abnormal gene in order for the child to inherit the disease.) The medically related factors of AN include diabetes.

Why is my child’s neck dark?

The “dirty looking” patch of skin may actually be a sign that your child is at increased risk for developing diabetes. WHAT IS IT? Commonly called “dirty neck,” this condition is known in medical terms as acanthosis nigricans (AAY-can-THO-sis NIG- ruh-cans) or A.N. overweight/obesity and insulin resistance.

How common is malignant acanthosis nigricans?

Acanthosis nigricans was found in 18.2% of children and 19.5% of adults in a cross-sectional study (n=1730) in the United States. Those diagnosed with acanthosis nigricans were twice as likely to have type 2 diabetes than those without (35.4% vs. 17.6%). Rarely, there is a link with an internal malignancy.

Why are my daughters armpits dark?

Acanthosis nigricans (ah-kan-THO-sis NY-gruh-kans) is a skin condition. It causes thicker and darker patches or streaks, usually in skin creases and folds, such as the sides and back of the neck, armpits, elbow pits, and groin. But it can show up anywhere on the body.

Is acanthosis nigricans normal?

Acanthosis nigricans is a fairly common skin pigmentation disorder. Dark patches of skin with a thick, velvety texture characterize the condition. The affected areas of your skin may also itch or have an odor. Acanthosis nigricans may be a sign of a more serious health problem, such as prediabetes.

Is acanthosis benign?

Acanthosis nigricans is a cutaneous process that occurs in both benign and malignant forms. Benign acanthosis nigricans is seen commonly in patients who are obese or diabetic, typically affecting the intertriginous areas of the body. Oral lesions are not found in this form of the condition.