What causes acanthosis nigricans?

What causes acanthosis nigricans?

AN can have many causes, including:

• Conditions associated with elevated insulin blood level, such as obesity, prediabetes or diabetes.
• Congenital cause, meaning you are born with this condition.
• Genetics, if family members have AN as well.
• Certain medications, such as birth control pills or steroids.
• Hormonal conditions, including thyroid disease, Addison’s disease, hypothyroidism or other pituitary disorders.
• Growth hormone therapy.

AN symptoms tend to develop slowly. If symptoms develop quickly, it may be a sign of cancer, though this is rare.