A new disease upon is upon us

Dark, velvety skin lesions in the folds of the body, contrary to popular myth, are not the result of poor hygiene, but may indicate metabolic or hormonal disorders. As Dr. n. med. Karina Barszczewska points out on her Instagram profile, they may be a sign of acanthosis nigricans.

Dr. Barszczewska, known on Instagram as @medycyna_na_obcasach, explains that skin lesions appear as a result of excessive stimulation of skin cells (keratinocytes and melanocytes) by insulin, which leads to their growth and melanin deposition.

“Acanthosis nigricans manifests itself as dark, velvety skin lesions, most often in the folds of the body – under the arms, on the neck, in the groin or under the breasts,” she notes in her Instagram post.

The expert also notes that in some cases, acanthosis nigricans may be a symptom of internal organ cancer. Therefore, such skin changes should never be ignored.

The basis of therapy is finding and eliminating the cause – controlling blood sugar levels, changing diet, losing weight and treating endocrine diseases. Some cases may require additional dermatological treatment, e.g. using lightening creams or treatments supporting skin regeneration.

– Never judge other people’s appearance, especially if you do not know their health history. What may seem to be the result of neglect may in fact be a symptom of a serious disease – Dr. Barszczewska appeals in conclusion

Instead of hasty judgment, it is worth raising awareness and supporting others in taking care of their health. If you notice such changes in yourself, consult a doctor – they may be a warning signal that should not be ignored.

Dominika Najda, journalist at Wirtualna Polska.