ABSTRACT
Dermatologists can observe variations in skin color, modification of skin structure, hair alterations, and changes in facial feature. Specific syndromes may be associated with a variety of typical signs. Acanthosis nigricans is the symmetrical asymptomatic areas of hyperpigmented, hyperkeratotic plaques with velvety appearance occurring on the nape, axillae, or groin. Screening for diabetes, insulin resistance, and internal malignancy is required. The histopathology shows hyperkeratosis, hyperpigmentation of the basal cell layer, and papillomatosis, without a dermal inflammatory infiltrate. Initial treatment should be directed to the underlying cause. Pretibial myxedema may be reduced with corticosteroids locally, systemically, or intralesionally, pentoxifylline 400 mg tid may be beneficial. Cushing’s syndrome is a rare condition characterized by increased glucocorticoid levels. Both exogenous and endogenous types of Cushing’s syndrome cause a variety of skin conditions. Drugs such as oral contraceptives, androgen receptor blockers, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, and systemic glucocorticoids are indicated for treatment when hyperandrogenism is confirmed by various laboratory tests.
