School Health Programs Protocols
S. Krantz LVN
March 31, 2008
“Acanthosis Nigricans” is a skin condition that signals high insulin levels in the body.
Insulin is produced by an organ called the pancreas. Insulin is important because it helps “carry” the glucose or sugar to the cells in your body. High insulin levels indicate that the body is resisting the insulin that is being produced. As a result, the pancreas produces more insulin than needed, and through time, it can stop producing enough insulin to take the glucose to the cells in the body. Acanthosis Nigricans is important because these markings can help identify persons who run the risk of developing diabetes in the future.
What can be done about Acanthosis Nigricans?
Acanthosis nigricans is a marker that signals elevated insulin levels and a risk of developing diabetes and other conditions in the future. Taking immediate action may help delay or prevent the health conditions associated with high insulin levels. Acanthosis nigricans is frequently associated with obesity.
What steps can be taken if acanthosis nigricans is present?
1. Visiting your physician and getting the appropriate exams to determine the status of your glucose and insulin levels is a good idea. From there, your physician may recommend some
2. nutritional counseling and
exercise to help your body become more sensitive to the insulin it produces.
SCHOOL HEALTH PROGRAM PROTOCOLS
1. VISION & HEARING: All new students and grades Kinder, 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 will be screened.
2. HEIGHT & WEIGHT: All new students and grades Kinder, 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9.
3. SPINAL SCREEN: Grades 6 and 9.
4. ACANTHOSIS NIGRICANS: Students in grades 3, 5, and 7.
