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I have weird pattern on the back of my arms with no pain and other notable symptoms. Please help.

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am a female in my mid 20's. I have noticed a weird pattern on the back of my arm today. I do not know how long it has been there. It does not hurt or do anything. Just wondering what it is? And what I need to do about it?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have seen your photographs (attachment removed to protect patient identity) and to me it seems like pityriasis versicolor. It usually occur in humid weather or sunny season. Apply the following medications and it will be helpful.

The Probable causes

The probable cause is increased humidity or sweating.

Differential diagnosis

The differential diagnosis is pityriasis versicolor.

Treatment plan

Use Ketoconazole 1% cream for local application in the evening and morning over the affected area.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

I was most concerned about it being a Livedo reticularis rash. But in your opinion does it not look like that?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It is less likely to be Livedo reticularis because of the following reasons. The reasons are one side involvement (only on one side of the arm), site of involvement: Livedo reticularis more common in lower limbs and distal part. After seeing the photographs of the affected region again to me it seems like pityriasis versicolor. I wish to review it after three weeks.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

I will post a photo in a few weeks. Is it still likely to be the pityriasis versicolor even though the patches themselves do not feel scaly or anything but smooth?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

You are right pityriasis versicolor is usually scaly but in few cases with application of topical, they at times are smooth. It is unilateral involvement and asymptomatic suggest me to keep the first possibility of pityriasis versicolor. I would like to give you a therapeutic trial so to rule out this condition first.

Answered byDr. Aditi Dhanta

Medically reviewed byDr. Vinodhini J.

Published At June 4, 2020
Reviewed AtJanuary 14, 2024

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