HomeAnswersDermatologyknuckle hyperpigmentationWhy do I have red bumps on my knuckles?

What are these red bumps on my knuckles?

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What are these red bumps on my knuckles?

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Suvash Sahu

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At August 12, 2016
Reviewed AtJanuary 4, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

For as many years as I can remember I have these red bumps on my knuckles on the top of my hand. The funny thing is, every time when I am pregnant they disappear. Can you tell me what it could possibly be? I have eczema, but that does not go away during pregnancy.

Answered by Dr. Suvash Sahu

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have seen your pictures and descriptions (attachment removed to protect patient identity).

It looks like knuckle hyperpigmentation. It can occur in certain dermatological conditions like vitamin B12 deficiency, allergic contact dermatitis and SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus). Are these patches itchy? Do you have any associated oral ulceration, joint pain and photosensitivity? This is just to rule out the above mentioned conditions.

I suggest you multivitamin tablet once daily for one month and apply mild topical steroid like Desonide cream once daily for three weeks. Consult your specialist doctor, discuss with him or her and get the treatment with consent.

The Probable causes

Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Investigations to be done

ANA titer (antinuclear antibody).

Regarding follow up

Revert back after a month to a dermatologist online.---> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/dermatologist

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Suvash Sahu
Dr. Suvash Sahu

Dermatology

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