Leptin Receptor Expression in Obesity-Associated Acanthosis nigricans

Abstract

Background: Obesity-associated Acanthosis nigricans is the most common type of Acanthosis nigricans. Objective: To detect leptin receptor expression in the skin lesion affected by obesity-associated Acanthosis nigricans. Methods: Twenty patients suffering from obesity-associated Acanthosis nigricans were included in this prospective study. Complete history taking, thorough general examination and calculation of body mass index were done for all patients. Leptin receptor expression was investigated in skin lesion and perilesional skin by immunohistochemistry. Results: The mean age of the patients was 19.5 ± 7.561 years and the mean duration of the disease was 8.6 ± 6.44 years. 14 patients were females and 6 patients were males. The mean BMI of the examined patients was (31.5 ± 4.4). The expression of leptin receptors was significantly higher in skin lesions than perilesional skin of the patients. Conclusion: Leptin receptor expression was significantly higher in skin lesions affected by obesity-associated AN.