Abstract

Acanthosis Nigricans (AN) is a dermatological manifestation with systemic implications, often linked to obesity, insulin resistance, endocrinopathies, and malignancies. Aim: This study aims to analyze its clinical, histopathological, and epidemiological features among patients attending a tertiary care center. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary healthcare center with a total of 330 patients diagnosed with AN were enrolled. Clinical assessments included grading of lesions, body mass index (BMI) evaluation, and dermatological examinations. Laboratory investigations, including blood glucose, lipid profiles, thyroid function tests, and serum insulin levels, were performed selectively. Histopathological analysis was conducted in consenting patients. Results: AN accounted for 4.7% of dermatology outpatient cases. The condition was most prevalent among individuals aged 31- 40 years (29.7%) and was more common in females (59.09%). The neck was the most frequently affected site (81.21%), followed by the axillae (58.79%) and groin (46.67%). Obesity was the most common association (67.58%), followed by diabetes mellitus (18.79%), polycystic ovarian disease (8.79%), hypothyroidism (4.85%), drug-induced cases (2.12%), and malignancy (0.6%). Histopathology confirmed hyperkeratosis, papillomatosis, and basal layer pigmentation in most cases. Conclusion: AN is a significant cutaneous marker of systemic conditions, particularly metabolic disorders. Its presence warrants thorough screening for underlying endocrinopathies. Clinicians should recognize AN as a potential early indicator of metabolic syndrome, facilitating timely intervention and management.