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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is There A Reason For A White Spot Around A Steroid Injection Site On The Elbow?

I received a steroid injection in my elbow a little over a year ago and since I have had a white spot that will occasionally scab and bleed at the site of the injection. Is there a reason for this? Is this what some people say is a reaction of the steroid killing the fat cells in the injection site? Can I do anything to stop this from continuing to happen?
Tue, 28 Aug 2018
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Internal Medicine Specialist 's  Response
Hi,


hypopigmentation usually develops after a few weeks and, in the majority of cases, resolves after a few months . The exact mechanism that causes this type of lesion is unknown, but a previous report indicates that melanocytes are intact, so it has been theorized that steroids potentially impair some of the functions of these cells .More frequently in dark-skinned individuals and can present with a linear pattern due to possible lymphogenous or vascular spread of the corticosteroid.

Also possibility of local infection with continuous discharge.Get examined for secretions culture and microscopy. If only hypopigmentation means it may recover soon, but in case of discharge and sinus formation means need to consult your surgeon he will examine and treat you accordingly.

Hope I have answered your query.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
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Is There A Reason For A White Spot Around A Steroid Injection Site On The Elbow?

Hi, hypopigmentation usually develops after a few weeks and, in the majority of cases, resolves after a few months . The exact mechanism that causes this type of lesion is unknown, but a previous report indicates that melanocytes are intact, so it has been theorized that steroids potentially impair some of the functions of these cells .More frequently in dark-skinned individuals and can present with a linear pattern due to possible lymphogenous or vascular spread of the corticosteroid. Also possibility of local infection with continuous discharge.Get examined for secretions culture and microscopy. If only hypopigmentation means it may recover soon, but in case of discharge and sinus formation means need to consult your surgeon he will examine and treat you accordingly. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.