How can dark patches on the cheeks be treated?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 21-year-old cousin, whose height is 5 feet and 9 inches and weighs 264.55 Ibs, has dark patches on his cheeks. Photos are attached. The patient had already consulted a doctor regarding this year ago. The doctor had suggested that it might be acanthosis nigricans and suggested cholesterol evaluation. The darkness has reduced now but is not totally gone. Please see the test results and kindly advise treatment.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through the photos (attachment removed to protect patient identity). Yes, it can be acanthosis nigricans. But does he have similar pigmentation over the nape of the neck, groin area, and armpits? His serum cholesterol levels are raised. He also is overweight. There is a deficiency of vitamin D and B12. I would like to know what creams he has applied.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I suggest you apply Glyco 6 (Glycolic acid) cream over dark patches at bedtime and sunscreen in morning. With the reduction in weight, pigmentation also will reduce.

I hope this will help you.

Thank you.