The efficacy of topical treatments for acanthosis nigricans: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a skin disorder marked by darkening and thickening of the skin, often linked to metabolic abnormalities. This systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assesses the comparative effectiveness and tolerability of different topical treatment options of AN, aiming to determine the most suitable therapeutic strategies.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library, yielding 6,407 studies. After screening and a full-text review, seven randomized controlled trials (n = 268) assessed topical urea (10-20%), tretinoin (0.025-0.05%), salicylic acid (10%), and chemical peels such as glycolic acid (35-70%) and trichloroacetic acid (15

SUBMITTER: Alamri A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12549304 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature