Acanthosis Nigricans: How to Care for Your Child

The dark skin patches that appear in acanthosis nigricans are harmless, but children with this condition might have a higher risk for developing diabetes and other health problems.

In acanthosis nigricans, kids get thick, dark, and sometimes streaky patches on their skin. The patches usually affect areas with skin folds, such as the neck, armpits, elbows, knees, and groin, but can appear anywhere on the body. They are not contagious. Sometimes parents or children may think the skin is dark because it is dirty, but this is not the case. Scrubbing the skin does not help and can cause irritation.

Acanthosis nigricans is more common in kids who have high levels of the hormone insulin in their blood due to a condition called insulin resistance. Both conditions occur much more often in children who are overweight and at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes. However, acanthosis nigricans also can be hereditary and occur in kids who are otherwise healthy. Your child's health care provider may have ordered tests to find out if your child has insulin resistance or diabetes.

If your child is overweight, reaching and maintaining a healthier weight through increased physical activity and dietary changes might help improve the skin's appearance. Sometimes health care providers prescribe a cream or lotion to help lighten the skin, but it is unclear whether such treatment works very well.

• Do not use skin bleaches or scrubs on the patches.

• Wash the skin gently. Scrubbing the patch roughly can cause irritation.

• If your child is overweight, follow the weight loss plan prescribed by your health care provider.

• Limit the amount of fast foods and sugary treats in your child's diet.

• Encourage your child to drink water instead of soda, juice, or sugary drinks.

• Serve healthy foods like whole grains, vegetables, fruits, lean meats, fish, beans, nuts, and low-fat dairy products.

• Your child should be physically active at least 60 minutes each day. Help your child find fun types of exercise, such as team sports, dancing, walking, running, or active games like tag.

• Give your child any prescribed medicines as directed by your health care provider.

Your child:

• Has excessive thirst.

• Urinates (pees) often or in large amounts.

• Has unexplained weight loss.

Your child has:

• Unexplained stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.

• Deep, rapid breathing.

• Extreme drowsiness, confusion, or unconsciousness.