Etymed
acanthosis
Definition
abnormal condition characterized by thickening and roughening of the skin, often appearing as rough, scaly patches
Clinical context
A 45-year-old diabetic patient presents with dark, thickened patches on the neck and axillae that have been progressively worsening over 6 months. The lesions are rough to touch and have a velvety appearance. A skin biopsy reveals hyperkeratosis and hyperpigmentation affecting the superficial epidermis.
Mnemonic
ACANTHOSIS = Acanthosis (thickened skin), Can't see (rough, scaly patches), Always (often associated with diabetes), Never (never seen in normal skin)