Bruise-like itchy patch above my stomach

[bruiserbruiser]

I have a bruise-like patch above my stomach for the last 10 years or so. It is an oval shape that measures about 2 inches by 1 inch. Looks more like a tan that is darker than the rest of my body. The itch is more or less constant throughout day and night without variation in intensity. Sometimes I wake up scratching it. I can leave it alone but I'd feel better scratching at it for some relieve.The itch is not on the surface but seems to be just beneath the skin. I remember the itch started 10 years ago at the location where it is now without any coloration. However as the years passed, it gradually turned brownish bruise-like. It hasn't grown for the last 10 years and the intensity of the itch was what it used to be when it started. The bruise-like patch feels like the rest of my skin, just darker. My profile picture shows very clearly the color, size and location of the patch.

Can someone please advise?

[bruiserbruiser]

Thanks doctor for the great info!

I'm using a cream called "nixoderm" (which contains Benzoic acid, salicylic acid and sulphur) to ease the little itch on the patch. This cream helps the skin peel off slowly too. So far its working fine. I hope in time to come the skin will revert to its original condition.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Treatment with topical acids and chemical peels may take many sittings and few months for the scar to diminish in size but it should always be done by a good cosmetologist as it may require considerable time especially if it is an old scar.
I hope it helps. Take care and regards.

[bruiserbruiser]

Hi Doctor,

Thank you so much for your kind response. When you mentioned that " Topical treatments with acids and chemical peels can be effective but can take a while for the skin to totally revert to its normal color" how long in terms of months are we looking at?

I am trying to assess whether the treatment period and costs would be worthwhile since the condition does not really affect me in my everyday life except cosmetically.

Thank you in advance!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It looks like hyperpigmentation skin which may have been caused by post inflammatory hyperpigmentation after the itchy skin. Topical treatments with acids and chemical peels can be effective but can take a while for the skin to totally revert to its normal color.  Microdermabrasion can also be done, but this might require several sessions.  Skin resurfacing using lasers is also an option.  

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.