Skin Condition May Signal Liver Damage Among Indian Diabetics, Study Finds
Written by Arushi Sharma
Acanthosis Nigricans (AN), a skin condition characterized by darkening and thickening of the skin, particularly on the neck, may be an indicator of liver issues in diabetic patients according to a new study by Indian researchers.
Indian researchers has shed light on a potential correlation between a common skin condition and liver damage among individuals with type 2 diabetes.
The study, led by experts from Fortis C-DOC Hospital, AIIMS, and other prominent diabetes organizations in India, suggests that Acanthosis Nigricans (AN), characterized by darkening and thickening of the skin, particularly on the back of the neck, could serve as an indicator of liver issues in diabetic patients.
Acanthosis Nigricans is a dermatological condition often associated with insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. While it typically manifests on the neck, it can also appear in other areas such as the armpits, elbows, knees, and groin.
The research, which involved 150 patients with type 2 diabetes, half of whom had AN and half without, revealed a significant correlation between the presence of AN, especially on the neck, and elevated levels of insulin resistance, fasting blood sugar, and markers indicative of liver damage.
Dr. Anoop Misra, co-author of the study, emphasized the significance of the findings, stating, "This case-control study involving patients with type 2 diabetes made important observations indicating an independent association between Acanthosis Nigricans and markers of liver damage."
Lead author Koel Dutta highlighted the novelty of the research, noting, "Our study provides novel data on Acanthosis Nigricans as a clinical marker. These findings introduce a new and easy-to-identify marker for assessing liver health in diabetic patients."
The study underscores the importance of recognizing Acanthosis Nigricans in Indian diabetic patients, a population with a high prevalence of insulin resistance and early-onset type 2 diabetes. Early detection of potential liver damage through this skin condition could lead to improved management strategies and better health outcomes for affected individuals.
The findings of this study offer valuable insights into the potential utility of Acanthosis Nigricans as a screening tool for liver health among diabetic patients, potentially revolutionizing early detection and intervention strategies in diabetes management.