Strange Pinkish/Brownish Marks on Chest and Back.

[Limoaz]

Hello, I've had these strange pinkish/brownish marks on my chest and back for a few months now, and they won't seem to go away. They do not hurt, it is the appearance that bothers me. They actually do not physically hurt me any way, but they flake when I scratch them, but never go away. I do not live in an extremely sunny place, and am not regularly exposed to sunlight. They range in different sizes, some large and some small. By large, it is about the size of an English 2 pence coin. They have no real shape except for being irregular and circular. Please help.

[Limoaz]

Thank you, I'll buy some Lamisil, and if it has no effect I'll consult a doctor.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be tinea versicolor which involves the trunk, shoulders and chest mainly. Tinea versicolor is caused by a fungus that lives in the skin of almost all adults. Factors that can cause the fungus to become more visible include high humidity and immune or hormone abnormalities.Treatment involves topical and oral antifungal medicines.

Also apply topical antifungals like Lamisil or Monistat. Severe cases may need oral antifungals for which I suggest you to consult a dermatologist.

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.