Spots and bumps on arms leg and chest

[Nimits]

I have numerous (10+) white spots (a general practicioner suggested that it might be loss of primentation) on my chest and stomach, ranging from about the size of a pencil eraser to smaller. The smaller ones are flat, while a some of the larger ones are slightly raised, (about 1mm or less). I first noticed these aeas (there were only 4-5 at the time) about a month ago. The number of spots seem to be increasing, and some seem to becoming more raised.

I also have numerous (15+) pink and white spots on my arms, hands, and ankles. The largest of these areas is slightly larger than a pencil eraser. None of these spots are either raised or indented as far as I can tell; however, some of the spots have a somewhat scar-like appearence and others are a little shiny. I first noticed two of thes spots on my left arm about 3 months. Those two spots have since seem to heel over somewhat, as they are harder to notice now, though this could simply be caused by the fact that my skin has lost some of its sumer tan, and these spots do not stand out as much. The number of these spots, as well as the locations in which they appear, have increased.

I am trying to make an appointment with a dermatologist, but it will be several weeks before I will be able to see one, as they are all booked up. Do you have any ideas about what this could be in the mean time? Thank you.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

I obviously can't be sure without seeing you, but in adolescents and young adults, the most common cause of pigment changes like the ones you describe is tinea versicolor.  This is a noncontagious fungus which changes the color of the skin, wither to more or less.  The pigment change is temporary.  Here's what you can do while waiting for an appointment: get some Selsun Blue shampoo (no prescription needed) and apply it to all affected areas, leave on overnight, and wash off in the morning.  Repeat this for seven days.  Then get yourself checked when you can set up an appointment.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff

[Nimits]

I forgot to say it, but I am also 18 years old.

[Nimits]

One more thing that I did not make clear, besides the bumps on my chest, many of the spots or patches I described above feel no different to the touch than the surrounding skin, nor do they cause irritation etc.

Also, while the general shape of the spots are somewhat circular,they have now strict shape-pattern; many of the spots are irregularly-shaped.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Thanks.  Please see a doctor.  ASR

[amd]

From what you say, I think I have the same thing on my upper back, and I am looking for an answer.  I've also been told to use Selsun Blue, but it didn't work very well.  I found something that works better, and I've been told that these are generically called "sun spots."  Though I'm not sure what they medically are, I put something natural on them and it makes them fade.  It seems that it will make them go away, but I haven't been using it long enough.  Go to your local natural food store and get a small bottle of Tea Tree Oil.  I put it on before going to bed,once a day, because it does have a very strong scent.  Be sparing with it; as I said, it has a strong scent.  A little goes a long way.  Also, it is a natural, and it can in no way make the condition worse.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

The answer is: see a doctor and get a diagnosis.

Dr. Rockoff