pixiepoesy

I know this is a symptom of PCOS, but what does it mean exactly? Here lately the skin of my armpits and my groin area have become soooo dark, it's like the skin isn't even mine. I'm a very fair-skinned person, so to see dark brown in these areas is alarming. What causes this?

mousekitty

Dear Pixie,

I believe the darkening of the skin that you are experiencing is called Acanthosis nigricans. I am not sure what exactly causes it, but, as far as I know, it is not harmful. You could probably try looking it up on Google to get more information on it.

Good Luck, hun!
-MK (^.^)/

OrangeDaisy

Google Acanthosis nigricans to see pictures of people with the disorder.

Acanthosis nigricans is a disorder that may begin at any age. It causes velvety, light-brown-to-black, markings usually on the neck, under the arms or in the groin. Acanthosis nigricans is most often associated with being overweight.

Eating too much of the wrong foods, especially starches and sugars, raises insulin levels. Most patients with acanthosis nigricans have a high insulin level, higher than those of the same weight who don't have acanthosis nigricans. Elevated levels of insulin in most cases probably cause acanthosis nigricans. This happens when there is insulin "spillover" into the skin. This activates insulin receptors in the skin and forces it to grow abnormally. Reducing the circulating insulin by a special diet can lead to a rapid improvement of the skin problem.

http://www.aocd.org/skin/dermatologi...s_nigrica.html

__________________
Dx November 2004
Met 1500 mg
Atenolol 25 mg & Hyzaar 50/12.5 for BP
Vaniqa cream 2X daily
Topical Clindamycin for folliculitis and rosacea
Weight loss since diagnosis - 28 pounds