Abstract
Although the association of acanthosis nigricans (ACN), with abnormalities of carbohydrate metabolism and ovarian function has recently received attention in the medical literature, the impression remains that this is a rare condition. Over the last 2 years, we have seen 21 patients with this syndrome. 73% were younger than 20 years. Amenorrhea was the most common presenting complaint but others came because of hirsuitism, obesity, diabetes or the skin changes.
Initial results on 10 patients indicate that 2 had 1° amenorrhea, 6 had 2° oligo-or amenorrhea, 2 continued to menstruate. 8 were caucasion and 2 were black. Age at diagnosis ranged from 14 and 3/12 to 20 years. ACN had been present between 2 months and 4½ years but many patients were unaware that they had the condition. 7 of the 10 patients had one or more elevated androgen levels (free or total testosterone, androstenedione or DHEA-S); 4 of 10 had abnormal glucose tolerance but 8 had elevated 1 hr insulin levels which ranged from 100 to 720 μU/ml. Treatment remains problematic but weight loss or glyburide improves glucose tolerance in some.
CONCLUSIONS: 1) The syndrome of ACN-POO is common in adolescents, 2) Most patients with ACN have elevated androgens, and 3) Most have abnormal insulin action.
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Redmond, G., Gidwani, G. & Taylor, J. 140 SYNDROME OF ACANTHOSIS NIGRICANS, POLYCYSTIC OVARIES, AND INSULIN RESISTANCE: A COMMON ENDOCRINOPATHY IN ADOLESCENTS. Pediatr Res 19, 626 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198506000-00160
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198506000-00160