Acanthosis nigricans and hyperandrogenism in a pregnancy complicated by diabetes.

Abstract

Acanthosis nigricans and hyperandrogenism have been associated with diabetes mellitus accompanied by insulin resistance. However, these manifestations have rarely been reported to occur as a result of the insulin resistance of pregnancy. A 31-year-old woman with diabetes mellitus exhibited severe insulin resistance during pregnancy. At 32 weeks, daily administration of 500 U insulin was required to maintain glycemic control. Skin lesions typical of acanthosis nigricans appeared, and free testosterone levels were elevated (10.3 pg/mL). These manifestations resolved after delivery. This case may demonstrate a correlation between reversible gestational insulin resistance and acanthosis nigricans.