Acanthosis nigricans is most commonly associated with which condition?

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Multiple Choice

Acanthosis nigricans is most commonly associated with which condition?

Acanthosis nigricans signals insulin resistance. The skin changes—velvety, dark plaques in folds such as the neck, armpits, and groin—develop when insulin signaling promotes skin cell growth. The most common condition linked to this pattern is type 2 diabetes mellitus, where insulin resistance is a core feature. Addison disease can cause hyperpigmentation, but it’s diffuse and due to ACTH, not the localized velvety patches seen with acanthosis nigricans. The other options don’t fit the typical pattern or underlying mechanism.

Acanthosis nigricans signals insulin resistance. The skin changes—velvety, dark plaques in folds such as the neck, armpits, and groin—develop when insulin signaling promotes skin cell growth. The most common condition linked to this pattern is type 2 diabetes mellitus, where insulin resistance is a core feature. Addison disease can cause hyperpigmentation, but it’s diffuse and due to ACTH, not the localized velvety patches seen with acanthosis nigricans. The other options don’t fit the typical pattern or underlying mechanism.

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