great grandson

my grandson has a skin color change around genetal area.  started small now has gotten bigger. he is a little dark skin.  his genetal area is light skin.  can you please tell me whats it can be.  he is two years old..

[Paderla Anitha, DNB]

Hello and hope you are doing well.

The hypopigmentation or the lighter skin patches that you see could be due to vtiligo,. It is postulated to be a auto immune disorder, that is the body develops antibodies to its own cells, namely the melanocytes, which produce the pigment melanin for giving the skin it's color. It is also said to be hereditary, means it could run in families. The discoloration could also be due to fungal infections or pityriasis alba. But to exactly pin point the pathology you will need to consult your  primary care physician who will examine him and may ask for blood tests. If the need arises he may refer him to a dermatologist.

Hope this helped and do keep us posted.