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By Mayo Clinic staffCharacteristics of acanthosis nigricans include:
- Skin changes. Skin changes are the only signs of acanthosis nigricans. You'll notice dark, thick, velvety skin in body folds and creases — typically in your armpits, groin and neck. Sometimes the lips, palms or soles of the feet are affected as well.
- Slow progression. The skin changes appear slowly, sometimes over months or years.
- Possible itching. Rarely, the affected areas may itch.