skin condition on arm

[iamhere4you132]

i have a rash like thing on my arm near the elbow it has been there for almost two years now and is still increasing in size. i have gone to a dertermologist and they have said it was a fungus growing on my arm and put me on Terbinafine. well i have been on this for almost two months and have seen no improvement and it is still getting worse. i kind of think it is ring worm but i have been putting lamisil on it but that has not helped either. i am going to a new doctor about it soon but i would like opinions on it. It changes the color of my skin lighter and the edges of it are redish in color so it is noticeable but not hugely. it sometimes itches but rarely and sometimes have dry skin but also rarely. Any suggestions?

[iamhere4you132]

pictures on internet look nothing like what i have on my arm sorry

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms it looks like pityriasis versicolor. It 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. Most cases respond to over-the-counter products, which contain any of several basic ingredients: miconazole, tolnaftate, terbinafine,ketaconazole and clotrimazole.You can consult a pharmacist and get any cream or lotion containing these ingredients.

You should consult a dermatologist and get the diagnosis confirmed.
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.