How do dermatologists diagnose acanthosis nigricans? A
dermatologist can diagnose acanthosis nigricans (AN) by looking
at your skin. If your dermatologist diagnoses you with AN, you
may need a blood test and other medical tests. These tests can
help find out if you have another medical condition. AN is more
common in people who have diabetes. Sometimes, AN can be a
warning sign of pre-diabetes, thyroid disease, and other
conditions. How do dermatologists treat acanthosis nigricans?
Many people see their skin clear when they get treatment for the
condition that is causing AN. If you have pre-diabetes, getting
that under control often helps to fade the dark patches on your
skin. If testing finds a problem with your thyroid or adrenal
glands, treating that condition can clear your skin. Sometimes,
a person develops AN but does not have a related medical
condition. Sometimes treating the related disease does not
completely clear the skin. It is not necessary to treat AN. If a
patient wants clearer skin, a dermato