Underarm fungus

I have a rash under both of my arms that has a brownish hue to it rather than being reddish.  My dermatologist said it was an underarm fungus and that I should use Selsun Blue (a shampoo) as a "wash" to get rid of it.  I tried that for a month and there has been no change.  Can you recommend another treatment?

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

I recommend that your dermatologist have another look, or that you get another opinion.  Other possibilities include:
1. fungus that needs stronger treatment (such as creams, or pills taken once or twice)
2. pigmentation left over from irritation or eczema (treatment; topical steroids and time)
3. acanthosis nigricans, a condition either inherited or associated with obesity or other things (pretty unlikely, since this sounds recent, and for other reasons)
4. a bacterial growth called erythrasma (uncommon and in any case really easy to treat.)

I wouldn't lose any sleep over this -- numbers 3 and 4 are really long shots.

With an other visit and treatment, you should be fine.

Take care.

Dr. Rockoff

[dislikesfungi]

A related discussion, GETTING RID OF FUNGI was started.

[tgirl2]

A related discussion, Under arm fungus was started.