MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Acanthosis nigricans

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Acanthosis nigricans - close-up

This photograph demonstrates the hyperpigmented, brownish, velvety lesions of acanthosis nigricans. This skin condition may occur in skin folds such as the axilla (armpit - pictured here), neck, and other areas. In adults, it may be associated with hormonal problems, internal malignancy, obesity, and drugs.

Update Date: 7/17/2007

Updated by: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Associate, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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