Abstract
Acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN) is an inflammatory disease related to the spectrum of keloidal scarring alopecias. No association with internal disease has been described so far.
We describe a case series of four Indian patients who showed an association of AKN with acanthosis nigricans, a skin marker for the metabolic syndrome (in particular obesity). Well known risk factors for AKN such as curly hair or wearing of a helmet were not present in these patients. AKN shows some similarities to acne inversa.
We propose that AKN may be considered a cutaneous marker for the metabolic syndrome but casecontrol studies will be necessary to validate this clinical observation. Wehope that our findings will stimulate other dermatologists to search for such an association.
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No sources of funding were used to assist in the preparation of this case series. The authors have no conflicts of interest that are directly relevant to the content of this case series.
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Verma, S.B., Wollina, U. Acne Keloidalis Nuchae. Am J Clin Dermatol 11, 433–436 (2010). https://doi.org/10.2165/11537000-000000000-00000
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.2165/11537000-000000000-00000