Congenital Nevi
April 1, 2011 by admin
Filed under Skin Disorders
Congenital nevi are skin marks that are similar to birthmarks. Nevi can be found on the body at birth and can be caused by non-cancerous melanocytes on the outside parts of the skin. These are marks that can end up being developed around the skin even after birth.
The congenital nevi that a person can develop may occur in various parts around the body. These can be noted by certain areas of the skin that look darker or different in texture from other parts of a person’s skin.
These marks can be found in a variety of sizes. Some of them can be less than a centimeter in diameter while others can be more than twenty centimeters in diameter. Smaller nevi can surround larger nevi as well.
This may be caused by external influences on the neuroectoderm, a part of the skin where melanocytes form. The cells in the skin can end up being influenced to where they will influence the development of new marks.
Some rare cases can involve neurocutaneous melanosis, a condition where nevi and melanomic tissues can be found around the central nervous system. This could be due to high levels of pressure in the cranium.
Increased Potential For Melanoma?
Congenital nevi could be a sign of a person’s increased likelihood to develop melanoma in the future. It is clear that a child who has not reached puberty may not be likely to develop this condition. However, it will end up being greater in those who are in their teens or greater.
A person may also be more likely to develop melanoma if the congenital nevi are more common around the body. This includes cases where the nevi are larger in diameter or if there are more small spots around large spots.
How Can It Be Treated?
Congenital nevi can be treated in one of two ways. The first involves a medical procedure. Medication creams may work in minor cases. It will be critical for a doctor to review the nevi with regards to their locations and whether or not there is a potential for the nevi to become malignant in the process.
The second treatment option involves a surgical procedure. A surgical removal may be required in order to reduce the potential of nevi to grow or spread. This is recommended if there is an increased risk of the nevi being malignant.
Some laser treatments may work on some people. This may only work in cases where surgery may not work on a spot.
In summary, congenital nevi can be more than just unusual looking marks. It can be dangerous to some people. It is critical to ensure that the nevi are treated as carefully as possible.
Acanthosis Nigricans: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
April 1, 2011 by admin
Filed under Skin Disorders
In 1889, the first case of Acanthosis Nigricans was documented and scientists and doctors have been learning about it ever since then. It has been discovered that this condition is mostly found in individuals that are obese but this is yet to be proven that it is connected and it is still maintained that anyone can suffer from it.
This condition has been connected to having too much insulin in the body leading the insulin to spill over into the skin. Acanthosis Nigricans then presents itself under these conditions. The main parts of the body where this condition shows is the neck, the groin and under the arms. It generally starts as a black mark that over time when not treated correctly can spread over to other parts of the body. It is possible that this condition go unnoticed for some time because of the parts of the body where it originates.
The Causes
There are a few distinct cases of Acanthosis Nigricans. The main or most common cause is type 2 diabetes but eating the wrong foods can also cause it. Starchy foods as well as foods that are high in sugar can contribute to having this condition. These above factors are also the main reasons why the majority of individuals with this condition are obese. The individuals who eat a well-balanced and healthy diet have less difficulty with unhealthy foods, high sugar levels and diabetes therefore lowering the risk of having Acanthosis Nigricans.
There are thought to be eight different types of this condition but three of them are the most frequently found. The most common type is that related to obesity and diabetes. The next type is found most often in African American individuals that are otherwise seem quite healthy. The third is actually the most serious as it is caused by certain types of aggressive cancer.
There are specific groups of people who are at a higher risk of this condition than others. These groups include those individuals with darker skin, individuals with diabetes and those who are overweight. This being said, those that don’t fit into these groups are not ruled out in ever having it.
The Symptoms and Treatment
The symptoms of Acanthosis Nigricans include a dark colored velvety patch of skin that first appears on the neck or under the arm. It is only a dark pigmentation of the skin but individuals who have it should be tested for diabetes immediately.
There is no specific treatment for this condition other than treating the underlying cause. This might be the treatment for diabetes, eating a healthy and well-balanced diet and so on. To prevent it, individuals are recommended to change the lifestyle to a healthier one right away.

