The syndrome of acanthosis nigricans, hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance

Two patients with hyperandrogenism secondary to polycystic ovary disease, insulin resistance and acanthosis nigricans are reported. These are the features of a specific syndrome of insulin resistance. One of these patients showed regression of her acanthosis nigricans following treatment with cyclical antiandrogens and oestrogens. Unilateral breast hypoplasia was also noted in this patient, a feature not previously reported in this syndrome. The relationship between hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance and acanthosis nigricans is discussed.