Newly formed series of small black spots underneath skin

Hello. I am a little concerned because just recently (about a week ago) I noticed that a series (9-10) tiny little black dots appeared underneath the outermost layer of the skin on my palm, just underneath my middle knuckle. The tiny little black dots seem to be becoming more pronounced, and I don't know whether this is because they are growing in size or because they are making their way closer to the surface. I know that if I try and book an appointment with a specialist it will take weeks to months before I see a dermatologist in person, so I was wondering if anyone in the medical community here could have a look and let me know if this is an emergency or not worth going to the hospital.

I took a picture of the dots on my hand, and you can see it here:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/24795334@N04/5638950066/in/photostream

Please any feedback would be appreciated.

Thank you
-Mark

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms it can be due to tinea nigra palms or palmar melanosis. Tinea nigra is a superficial fungal infection that causes dark brown to black painless patches on the soles of the hands and feet.

This can be confirmed by KOH examination of the skin scrapings and a skin biopsy done. If it is a fungal infection, then you may need topical and oral antifungals.

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 dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.