Acanthosis Nigricans and Pituitary Tumors

Abstract

Findings in eight patients with acanthosis nigricans and pituitary tumors, seven of whom had acromegaly or gigantism, emphasize the association of this dermatosis with pituitary disease. The sex incidence was equal, and their ages varied between 15 and 46 years. Two male patients had diabetes mellitus; three of four female patients had hypertrichosis, and all four female patients had amenorrhea. Obesity was not a constant feature. The clinical and histological findings were similar to those in acanthosis nigricans associated with other diseases. The occurrence of acanthosis nigricans with pituitary tumors as well as with other endocrine diseases, drugs, and total lipodystrophy raises the question of a possible hormonal or metabolic relationship of this dermadrome.