dark circular patterns on knuckles

[zeeke]

Hello community: I have had for 15 years dark circular or semi-circular patterns on my knuckles.  No one seems to have the answer for relieving myself of this problem, doctors included one being a dermatologist.  These discolorations are most embarrassing.  Can you help me with a bit of advice.  I tyried red onions to no avail.  I remail.  

[zeeke]

Thanks again Dr Kaur.  I am in the process of using hydroquinone right now, should it not work my plan is to move to the other medications and then try laser, per your last suggestions.  I have made note of your second set of suggestions and thank you very much.  There is one final bit of information and that is that I have been working on my knees lately and too have noticec that my knees are showing very large dark coloration per each knee.  It is difficult for me to monitor my elbows but were I to guess I would say that this dark coloration expresse itself upon being stressed (crawling on knees, impact with foreign objects by knuckles and continual leaning on elbows against hard surfaces at my job).  I appreciate your attention and hope that we will find a solution to this problem that is common to me and others as well.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

For these dark circular areas, as mentioned earlier, one reason can be frictional lichenoid dermatitis. The other possibility which needs evaluation is granuloma annulare. Granuloma annulare is a chronic disease consisting of a rash with reddish bumps arranged in a circle or ring. It is a chronic disease consisting of rings arranged in a circle. It presents as small, firm bumps (papules) over the backs of the forearms, hands or feet. Treatment is necessary for cosmetic purposes and consists of steroids and intralesional steroid injections.

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.