FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

How may Acanthosis Nigricans be described in terms of its texture and appearance?

1. Smooth and shiny

2. Rough and scaly

3. Velvety and pigmented

4. Dry and flaky

The correct answer is: Velvety and pigmented

Acanthosis Nigricans is characterized by its velvety texture and pigmented appearance. The skin affected by Acanthosis Nigricans typically has a thickened, darkened area, often found in skin folds, such as the neck, armpits, or groin. This velvety feel, combined with a brownish or grayish pigmentation, is a hallmark of the condition. The velvety texture arises from hyperkeratosis, which involves an increase in the number of keratinocytes in the skin's epidermal layer. The pigmentation often occurs due to increased melanin, which contributes to the darker appearance. This combination of texture and color makes Acanthosis Nigricans distinctively recognizable in clinical practice. Understanding this characteristic helps healthcare professionals in assessing underlying conditions often associated with Acanthosis Nigricans, such as insulin resistance or endocrine disorders.