Biography
Biography: Shuba Dharmana
Abstract
Acanthosis Nigricans is a condition involving symmetrical hyperpigmentation and thickening of the skin in the flexures like neck, axilla and groin. It is strongly associated with insulin resistance, obesity, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and some malignancies. It is important to screen people with AN for insulin resistance and advocate lifestyle changes, weight reduction etc. to reduce the risk of diabetes and its complications. Whilst underlying causes need to be corrected, lightening of the patches poses a problem. It’s often resistant to treatment and recurrence is common. A variety of topical skin lightening agents like Hydroquinone, Azelaic acid, triple combination cream, chemical peels, keratolytic agents like salicylic acid, emollients, calcipotriol, Metformin, octreotide, oral and topical retinoids , CO2 ablation, long pulsed alexandrite laser are all used to improve appearance.