Acanthosis Nigricans Questions & Answers

Updated: Oct 14, 2020
  • Author: Jason H Miller, MD; Chief Editor: William D James, MD  more...
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Questions & Answers

Overview

What is acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What is the pathophysiology of acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What causes acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What is obesity-associated acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What is syndromic acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What is acral acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What is unilateral acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What is generalized acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What is familial acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What is drug-induced acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What is malignant acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What is mixed-type acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What is the prevalence of acanthosis nigricans (AN) in the US?

What is the global prevalence of acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What is the racial predilection of acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What is the sexual predilection of acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

How does the prevalence of acanthosis nigricans (AN) vary by age?

What is the prognosis of acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What is included in patient education about acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

Presentation

Which clinical history findings are characteristic of acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

Which physical findings are characteristic of acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What are the possible complications of acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

DDX

What are the differential diagnoses for Acanthosis Nigricans?

Workup

What is the role of lab testing in the diagnosis of acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What is the role of skin biopsy in the diagnosis of acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

Which histologic findings are characteristic of acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

Treatment

How is acanthosis nigricans (AN) treated?

Which surgical techniques and drug treatments are indicated for acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

What is the role of surgery in the treatment of acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

Which specialist consultations are beneficial to patients with acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

Which dietary modifications are used in the treatment of acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

Medications

What is the goal of drug treatment for acanthosis nigricans (AN)?

Which medications in the drug class Keratolytic Agent are used in the treatment of Acanthosis Nigricans?

Which medications in the drug class Topical retinoids are used in the treatment of Acanthosis Nigricans?