ACANTHOSIS NIGRICANS AND DIABETES MELLITUS: A CASE REPORT
Arben EMURLAI, Andrej PETROV, Martina GJORGJIEVSKA KAMCEVA
Abstract
Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a dermatological disorder that manifests as hyperpigmented and thickened skin. It usually affects areas where there is skin-on-skin contact and can be a manifestation of insulin resistance, obesity, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. We present the case of a 39-year-old male who had progressive darkening and thickening of the neck region for approximately one year. He did not have any chronic illnesses or medication at the time. On physical examination, the patient had symmetrically dark, velvety, and thickened brownish patches over the posterior and lateral aspect of the neck suggestive of acanthosis nigricans. Laboratory studies revealed a fasting blood glucose level of 14 mmol/L and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) of 10%, indicating previously undiagnosed diabetes mellitus. After evaluation by the endocrinologist, he was put on insulin treatment, and the skin lesions were treated with topical retinoids. This case demonstrates the significance of understanding acanthosis nigricans as a clinical sign of metabolic disorders. In addition, it shows the importance of performing metabolic assessment in patients with skin lesions.
Pages: 32 - 35