Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a dermatosis with aesthetic implications and is characterized by the focal or diffuse development of a velvety, hyperpigmented cutaneous thickening in intertriginous areas. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA), a superficial chemical exfoliative agent has shown efficacy in treating acanthosis nigricans. Data from this would help in establishing it as a treatment of choice thereby lead to reduction in cost and benefit the patient both financially and psychologically.

Acanthosis nigricans is common, although exact prevalence depends upon the racial makeup of the population studied. Exact pathogenesis is unknown, elevated insulin concentrations result in direct and indirect activation of IGF-1 receptors on keratinocytes and fibroblasts, leading to proliferation. This hyperpigmentation, which has poorly defined borders, usually occurs in skin fold areas symmetrically, such as the back of the neck, axilla and groin, and may rarely involve oral mucosa. The lesions may be related to a wide range of benign conditions and may occur as a paraneoplastic manifestation of various potentially fatal malignancies.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients who will present with acanthosis nigricans as per operational definition will be included in the study.

  • Either gender.
  • Age 20-50 years.

Exclusion Criteria:

Pregnancy.

• Breastfeeding.
• Patients with history of skin resurfacing by dermabrasion, chemical peels and facial laser within the preceding 9 months.
• Patients with history of hypersensitivity.
• Malignant Acanthosis Nigricans.
• Drug Induced Acanthosis Nigricans.