Dry Brown Patches in middle of Torso + around neck?!

[TriciaTrishaTrish]

I have these brown patches of dry skin that start at my chest and trails down the middle of my torso. They are dryer than the surrounding normal skin, and if I scratch at it, it only makes the area red, but the patches never grow away.
I also have some of these patches around on both sides of my neck, and it seems the base of my neck is darker than my normal skin complexion.

I wash with a loofah everyday. I switched to using an antibacterial soap, but that hasn't changed anything.
I do plan on seeing a dermatologist when I have enough money to.

But can someone please tell me what this is or what it's caused by?

[maatson]

While it is true that 'erythrasma' is more common in diabetics not every case of erythrasma is a diabetic. Normal people like you and me get them too! So quit worrying and get your routine investigations done, if ever required.

[AliceLuvMusic]

i also have the same problem n only 18 and i do have a lil obessed problem but not that bad i saw a Dermatologist and they said that "its due to dieabetes" i dont have dieabetes nor does my family bloodline my mother said i had a skin rash when i was born could that have somthing to do with it? im really scared im praying its not dieabetes. pls reply asap thank you.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to pityriasis versicolor, erythrasma skin under the breasts or due to confluent and reticulated papillomatosis. Pityriasis versicolor (Tinea veriscolor) is a fungal infection caused by commensal yeasts in hot and humid conditions. They may be reddish brown, slightly scaly patches or ugly, depigmented areas that will not tan, especially in suntanned skin.

To confirm the diagnosis, I suggest you to get it evaluated from a dermatologist.
I hope it helps. Take care and regards.

[Babylynn]

i see that in your pic it doesnt look as bad as mine.

[Babylynn]

I have the exact same thing! But mine is spreading around my body, at first is wasnt that bad but it got worse, now is under my breast and on my sides, and i think its making its way to my privates. =( i dont know what it is either, I am freaking out.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
The symptoms are suggestive of pityriasis versicolor. 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. Also if the hyperpigmentation becomes more dark then get acanthosis nigricans of the neck ruled out.

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.