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What Causes White Dots On Arms?

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Posted on Mon, 9 Jun 2014
Question: I'm getting some white dots/spot on my arms..request you suggest whats the problem..I have attached the snaps for ur reference
doctor
Answered by Dr. Praveen Rodrigues (15 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Resend Pics please; Possible Pityriasis versicolor

Detailed Answer:
Hi there.
For some reason I don't seem to be able to view your snaps. Could I request you to please send it across again?
Also would appreciate a few clarifications: For how long have these white dots/spots been persisting? Are they itchy? Is there a mild furfuraceous scaling to these dots?
From your description, it appears to be a fungal infection called Pityriasis Versicolor.
I would be grateful for the clarifications & will revert asap & be in a position to give you a clearer picture.
Look forward to hearing from you again.
Dr Praveen Rodrigues MD
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Praveen Rodrigues (1 minute later)
sir,pls find the pics
doctor
Answered by Dr. Praveen Rodrigues (8 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Idiopathic Guttate Hypomelanosis

Detailed Answer:
Hi there.
Got them now..thanks. Have viewed them & must say have changed my diagnosis to a condition called 'Idiopathic Guttate Hypomelanoses'.
There is nothing to worry about. Some people are more predisposed to getting these white dots & occur earlier in life. They are postulated to be a degenerative cause precipitating & may have a familial predisposition.
My advice would be to wait & watch. Observe for 3-6 mths. If increasing, go to a dermatologist near you for a skin biopsy. In any case, use a sunscreen with a built in moisturiser to protect the region. I would suggest Sebamed's Hydrating moisturiser & sunscreen to help limit the damage & prevent further increase.
Also one may take a single dose of 400mg Fluconazole...if any Pityriasis Versicolor (fungal infection I alluded to in the beginning), it will get better with this single tablet.
To reiterate, Observation & Protection is the order of the day. Go for a skin biopsy after some 3 months especially if anxious to rule out any vitiligo.
Good Luck & trust I have given you a prompt, objective answer & cleared your doubts.
Wish you a clear complexion soon.
Dr Praveen Rodrigues MD
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. Praveen Rodrigues

Dermatologist

Practicing since :1993

Answered : 1193 Questions

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What Causes White Dots On Arms?

Brief Answer: Resend Pics please; Possible Pityriasis versicolor Detailed Answer: Hi there. For some reason I don't seem to be able to view your snaps. Could I request you to please send it across again? Also would appreciate a few clarifications: For how long have these white dots/spots been persisting? Are they itchy? Is there a mild furfuraceous scaling to these dots? From your description, it appears to be a fungal infection called Pityriasis Versicolor. I would be grateful for the clarifications & will revert asap & be in a position to give you a clearer picture. Look forward to hearing from you again. Dr Praveen Rodrigues MD