How do I get rid of these white spots on my arm that are growing larger? (photo)

Doctor's Answers 2

Thank you for your question. Common causes of white scaly patches on the thighs and limbs include fungal infection and eczema. It is important to make the correct diagnosis as the treatment for the 2 conditions are very different.

You seem to have tried the anti-fungal cream and other creams with limited success.

You can visit your doctor or dermatologist again if your white spots are persistent. Your doctor can re-evaluate your rash. If there is any doubt, a fungal scraping can be perform to confirm or rule out a fungal infection.

Your doctor should be able to advise you further from there on the appropriate management.

Hello Wot,

Based on your description you may have a condition called tinea versicolor. This is due to a fungal infection and is more common in hot and humid climates and in people who perspire more.

After a few weeks of treatment with antifungal creams, the infection may have resolved, but the residual hypopigmentation (white marks) can persist for a longer period, for months.

In such an instance, a fungal scraping or culture will help to determine whether there is still active fungus infection.

There are however a few other possible conditions that may look alike and you will probably need to visit your doctor for a proper examination.

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