Written By: Prerna Mittra | Updated : December 19, 2023 12:46 PM IST
Medically Verified By:
Neck pigmentation can be itchy sometimes, but there is no pain. (Photo: Freepik)
Have you ever noticed dark patches on your child on certain body areas such as the back of the neck or the armpits? It may be an indication of neck pigmentation issue or 'acanthosis', which needs to be checked by a dermatologist. "Some parents think it is just a skin rash or it is because of not cleaning properly. Sometimes, children are teased about it in school. These skin patches, however, can be indicative of a deeper problem," said Dr Rinky Kapoor, consultant dermatologist, cosmetic dermatologist and dermato-surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics.
According to the doctor, the overgrowth on the outer layer of the skin causes a dark and rough skin patch to appear on parts of the body. "It is velvety to touch. Neck pigmentation is not contagious; it is harmless. The exact cause is still not defined and the patches can be seen on the neck, knuckles, armpits, elbows and knees. In some cases, they may also appear on the tummy, chest, face and lips. This condition is common for pre-teen and teen children," said the doctor.
She added that most symptoms often go unnoticed, and parents need to keep a special watch on "sudden darkening and thickening of skin". "The neck pigmentation can be itchy sometimes, but there is no pain. It is common among both girls and boys," said the dermatologist.
The doctor explained that while neck pigmentation is not a common condition, children who are obese are at a higher risk. "Overweight and fat accumulation causes fat deposits under the skin that leads to insulin resistance, and eventually acanthosis."
The second cause, she said, is "disturbed hormonal levels", such as an underactive thyroid gland, PCOS and Cushing's syndrome, which can increase the risk of neck pigmentation at an early age.
There are two parts to the treatment line for acanthosis in children. Part one is the treatment of the underlying cause:
Second part is topical treatments for neck pigmentation:
In recent times, alexandrite laser treatment for the skin has also emerged as a solution to pigmentation, the expert concluded.
