[20M] With sudden dark, rough skin patch

Patient Description

A 20-year-old male reports the sudden appearance of a darker patch on the skin, which feels rough to the touch. The discoloration appeared suddenly, with no recent use of new skincare products or exposure to substances. There is no mention of recent sun exposure or injuries to the area. The patient has not found any remedies that lighten or relieve the patch.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your description of a sudden, darker, rough patch on your skin, here are some possibilities:

  • Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: This can occur after an injury or irritation, even if it wasn't noticeable. It results in darker patches on the skin.

    • Treatment often involves topical creams to lighten the area, but it usually fades over time.
  • Contact Dermatitis: This is a reaction to something that has touched your skin, causing discoloration and texture changes.

    • Treatment involves avoiding the irritant and using soothing creams.
  • Acanthosis Nigricans: This condition causes dark, velvety patches and is often associated with insulin resistance.

    • Treatment focuses on managing underlying conditions and using topical treatments.

What you can do

  1. Moisturize: Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to help with the rough texture.
  2. Avoid Irritants: Stay away from harsh soaps or chemicals that might worsen the condition.
  3. Monitor Changes: Keep an eye on the patch for any changes in size, color, or texture.
  4. Use MDandMe: Journal your symptoms and track any changes. This can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

  • Seek Medical Advice: If the patch changes rapidly, becomes painful, or you notice other symptoms, consult a healthcare professional.
  • Watch for Spreading: If the discoloration spreads or you develop new symptoms, it's important to get it checked.

Remember, it's always best to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.

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2 mo ago


People Also Ask


What causes post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and how can it be treated?

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin darkens after an injury or irritation, even if the initial cause wasn't noticeable. It can be treated with topical creams that lighten the area, and it often fades over time.


What are the common symptoms and treatments for contact dermatitis?

Contact dermatitis is a skin reaction to an irritant or allergen, causing redness, itching, and sometimes discoloration and texture changes. Treatment involves avoiding the irritant and using soothing creams to relieve symptoms.


What is acanthosis nigricans and what are its potential causes?

Acanthosis nigricans is characterized by dark, velvety patches on the skin, often associated with insulin resistance or hormonal disorders. Treatment focuses on managing underlying conditions and using topical treatments to improve skin appearance.


When should I seek medical advice for a sudden skin discoloration?

You should seek medical advice if the skin discoloration changes rapidly, becomes painful, or if you notice other symptoms such as spreading or new patches. A healthcare professional can provide a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.


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