Differentiating Between Primary Acanthosis Nigricans and Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Primary Acanthosis Nigricans

Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Breed

Dachshund

Any dog breed

Age of onset

< 1 year

Any age, but usually > 1 year

Pattern

Axillary and/or inguinal areas

Any site, any pattern; can be localized or diffuse 

Inflammatory lesions

Absent

Any combination of erythema, scaling, hair loss, lichenification

Secondary infections

Absent

Common

Pruritus

Absent

Common

Skin surface texture

Smooth

Irregular, elevated, lichenified

Concurrent skin disease

Absent

Common