From the Research
The management of Acanthosis nigricans primarily focuses on treating the underlying cause, such as insulin resistance or obesity, while providing symptomatic relief, with weight loss through diet and exercise being the cornerstone of treatment, as it can improve insulin sensitivity and potentially reduce skin manifestations 1. The approach to managing Acanthosis nigricans involves a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's overall health, including screening for underlying conditions like diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) 1.
- Key aspects of management include:
- Weight control, which can be achieved through lifestyle interventions, including diet and exercise, and in some cases, bariatric surgery 1.
- Topical treatments for cosmetic benefits, such as retinoids, vitamin D analogs, and keratolytics 2.
- Oral medications, including metformin for insulin resistance and oral retinoids for severe cases, under careful monitoring for side effects 1, 2.
- Procedures like dermabrasion, chemical peels, or laser therapy for resistant cases or significant cosmetic concerns 2, 3.
- Patient education is crucial, emphasizing that Acanthosis nigricans is often a marker of an underlying metabolic condition, and improvement may take months even with appropriate treatment of the underlying cause 1, 3.
- The most recent and highest quality study 1 highlights the importance of recognizing Acanthosis nigricans as a non-invasive surrogate marker for insulin resistance and associated metabolic complications, underscoring the need for a holistic approach to management that addresses both the skin manifestations and the underlying health issues.