Using trichloroacetic acid in the treatment of acanthosis nigricans: a pilot study

Abstract

Background: Despite several therapeutic modalities, acanthosis nigricans (AN) remains a difficult dermatosis to treat. Objective:This study aims to test the safety and efficacy of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) as a chemical peel in the treatment of AN in a random sample of Egyptian female patients. Method: Six females with AN lesions were included in this pilot study. All patients received chemical peeling sessions using TCA over the affected skin lesions. Sessions were carried out to all patients once per week. Treatment was continued for 1 month. Treatment efficacy was evaluated by determining the average rate of response of the lesions to the treatment on a weekly basis. Results: All patients showed improvement as regard hyperpigmentation, thickening, and the overall appearance. The physician assessment was excellent in three lesions, moderate in five, and was mild in two. No side effects had been reported. Conclusion: The study may present TCA as a safe, easy, and an effective method for the treatment of AN.