Acanthosis nigrican is associated with which conditions?

Acanthosis nigricans is a skin condition characterized by dark, velvety patches in body folds and creases, and it is most commonly associated with insulin resistance and metabolic disorders. This condition is frequently seen in individuals who have diabetes, obesity, and various endocrinopathies, particularly those that influence insulin regulation and overall metabolism.

The association primarily stems from the fact that insulin resistance leads to higher levels of insulin in the bloodstream, which can stimulate the growth of skin cells and cause the thickening and darkening characteristic of acanthosis nigricans. Conditions like type 2 diabetes and obesity are particularly noted for this relationship because they often involve insulin resistance as a key factor in their pathophysiology.

While other conditions mentioned in the alternatives may affect the skin in different ways, they do not share the same direct connection with acanthosis nigricans. Psoriasis and eczema are different inflammatory skin conditions that do not typically involve the same metabolic pathways. Allergies and infections generally manifest with different skin responses, and nutritional deficiencies are less likely to result in this specific skin change compared to the well-established link with metabolic disturbances.