acanthosis nigricans
Pronunciation: ak-an-THOH-sis NY-grih-kans
Dark, velvety skin patches typically in body folds, often indicating insulin resistance or hyperinsulinemia in children.
Full Definition
Acanthosis nigricans is a dermatological condition characterized by hyperpigmented, velvety plaques typically occurring in flexural areas such as the neck, axillae, and groin. In pediatric endocrinology, acanthosis nigricans serves as an important clinical marker of insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia, often preceding the development of type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents. The condition is particularly common in obese children and those with family history of diabetes. While benign in most pediatric cases, acanthosis nigricans can occasionally indicate underlying malignancy in adults, making age-appropriate evaluation important.
Usage
Usage note: Latin term; maintain italics in formal medical writing; commonly abbreviated as AN.
In Context
- "The presence of acanthosis nigricans prompted screening for diabetes and metabolic syndrome." — Physical examination note
- "Acanthosis nigricans improved significantly following weight loss and metformin therapy." — Treatment response