Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis or vitiligo?

[trevor84]

I just came across an answer you posted a while ago (www.medhelp.org/posts/Dermatology/White-spots-specks-on-skin/show/1978067). I am a dark skinned 29 year old male. I have similar white spots.. 4 on my right shin, 1 on my right thigh, 2 on my left thigh and one on my inner thigh (non-sun exposed), almost near the thigh fold/crease. All but the inner thigh spot are exposed to sun. I wear shorts all the time. I would like to upload a couple of pictures and seek your opinion. I was first diagnosed vitiligo by a doctor and he asked me to use topical steroids. I sought a second opinion and this doctor said it is not vitiligo and is IGH instead. obviously, I am hopping it is IGH and not vitiligo. I noticed them last month and I have not seen any changes in size. They are all small in size.. like 0.5 mm. These spots are driving me crazy and I would really like your opinion. The second doctor also noted that my skin is generally thinner than normal. I am attaching an image of the most prominent one on my shin

[trevor84]

Uploaded to my photos album in my profile.

[trevor84]

Have uploaded some pics of the inner thigh spot there's only one spot in that region). Eager to know your views.

[trevor84]

Thank you Dr Kaur.. I just posted another question.. Probably you will be able to answer that too.. http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Dermatology/Not-so-white-patches-on-the-chest/show/2094968

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It looks like idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis. Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis is characterized by flat white spots found on the shins and forearms. It may also arise on other sun exposed areas including the face, neck and shoulders but may also be found on thighs and legs as well. Usually nothing is to be done except sun protection. Attempts to destroy the lesions may leave brown marks or larger white marks, which may look worse than the original condition. The other treatment options are cryotherapy, dermaabrasion, creams like tretinoin and topical steroids.

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.

[trevor84]

I would like to show you another pic, of the spot in my inner-upper thigh. My worry has been that I have been reading IGH only occurs in sun exposed areas. This particular spot is almost near the pubic area, where the limb begins. The sun never reaches there (I don't sun bathe). How do I send you the pic?

[trevor84]

Please answer this question!