Question:
Are Acanthosis Nigricans considered a comorbitiy?

I am reveiwing my medical records, before my consult Wed.,and I remember my PCP saying I might be insulin Resistant. My sugar levels came back within the norm, but I do have the dark areas on my neck and underarms. This is a sign of insulin resistance. It is not in my records that I am insulin resistant, but it states that I have the nigricans, should I put this in my letter to the insurance company?    — D. K. (posted on November 22, 2003)

November 22, 2003
The skin disorder is only a possible sign, and not something that is actually a co-morbid condition. Why not see if your PCP wil order an INSULIN level? I was insulin resistant and had normal blood sugars and HbA1c levels, because my pancreas was cranking out the insulin to the max to keep them normal. You could mention that your PCP feels that you may be insulin resistant, but you really don't have any evidence.
   — koogy

November 22, 2003
Susan, This is what my pcp put in my records: Assessment/Plan: 1. Weight gain. I am checking a fasting blood sugar and thryoid function test. 2. Acanthosis Nigricans which could be a sign of insulin resistance. I am, therefore, checking a fasting blood sugar. 3. Elevated blood pressure. I haved advised her to start a 2 gram sodium diet. We will check her blood pressure on the next visit. This was from my first visit with her in July of 2001. I was diagnosed with hypothryoid,high blood pressure after the test results were in. I don't know what she has in my records since then. I guess, I should take it out as a diagnosis, but word it like you said. Thanks, Debbie
   — D. K.

February 28, 2006
Acanthosis Nigricans is definitive of IR. This information is readily available on the internet at any number of Dermatology websites. AN is caused by excess insulin spilling onto the skin. Your Dr can have you do a fasting insulin level test, this test takes 3 hours, and requires you to drink a glucola (nasty orange syrupy drink) Sound familiar? yep, this is done the same way a diabetes test is, only they are watching your insulin levels, not your sugar levels.
   — Emantha