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Acanthosis nigricans - Treatment

Treatment:

Because acanthosis nigricans itself usually only causes changes to the appearance of the skin, no particular treatment is needed.

It is important, however, to attempt to treat any underlying medical problem that may be causing these skin changes.

Expectations (prognosis):

Acanthosis nigricans often fades if the cause can be found and treated.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your physician if you develop areas of thick, dark, velvety skin.

Acanthosis nigricans - close-up

Acanthosis nigricans on the hand

Reviewed last on: 7/11/2008
Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Morelli JG. Diseases of the Epidermis. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap. 656.

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