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What Causes Discoloration On Neck?

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Posted on Wed, 26 Aug 2015
Question: I have a strange discoloration on my neck- It looks like acanthosis-nigricans but I'm not diabetic. It appeared suddenly. Mom and sis have thyroid issues.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Need more information; Not acanthosis nigricans

Detailed Answer:
Hello. Thank you for writing to us

I have taken note of your query and I have also reviewed the Image.

I can see a darkish patch with well defined, irregular margins and some red area within it. This is not acanthosis nigricans.

This seems like a fungal infection i.e Tinea.

I would like to know whether it is itchy? Is the surface dry?flaky?
Is it increasing in size?? Is it on both sides of neck or only on one side?

Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Dr. Kakkar (48 minutes later)
Hi, thanks for the prompt response. It does not look like ring worm. It extends to both sides of the neck- it just looks dirty on the back but then is more defined on either side- the length and width of a thumb extending to collar bone. Skin is dry, not that itchy but slightly. There are small redder parts that are like small, fine lessions or scabs. Its not fading.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (8 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Very suggestive of tinea; I want you to try an antifungal

Detailed Answer:
Hi.

Thank you for clarifications.
It is very likely a fungal infection/ Tinea. Itching, scaling are very much suggestive. Red areas at margins (as visible in this Image) indicate peripheral extension.
You may get this confimed by a 'KOH wet preparation' made by scraping a small amount of scale and visualising it under microscope for fungal elements i.e hyphae Or else you may try an otc topical antifungal cream e.g clotrimazole 1% cream, twice daily for 2 weeks.
This is certainly not acanthosis nigricans.

Regards
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Kakkar

Dermatologist

Practicing since :2002

Answered : 9612 Questions

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What Causes Discoloration On Neck?

Brief Answer: Need more information; Not acanthosis nigricans Detailed Answer: Hello. Thank you for writing to us I have taken note of your query and I have also reviewed the Image. I can see a darkish patch with well defined, irregular margins and some red area within it. This is not acanthosis nigricans. This seems like a fungal infection i.e Tinea. I would like to know whether it is itchy? Is the surface dry?flaky? Is it increasing in size?? Is it on both sides of neck or only on one side? Regards