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Asymptomatic skin diseases that favour the axillae – 12 cases

There are several asymptomatic skin diseases that favour the axillae. Most of the conditions in this month’s quiz are rather uncommon. Check the colour, and whether the surface is smooth (a patch) or thickened (a plaque).

Four examples of brown armpits, four examples of white armpits and four examples of skin coloured papules are included.

For each of the ten cases, study the image(s) and then answer the questions. You can click on the image to view a larger version if required.

Each case should take approximately 2 minutes to complete. There is a list of suggested further reading material at the end of the quiz.

When you finish the quiz, you can download a certificate.

Case 1

What is wrong with this armpit?

Acanthosis nigricans

Is any treatment appropriate?

Thickened 'velvety' brown plaques are due to acanthosis nigricans. The same darkened skin is commonly seen in the neck folds. It is caused by insulin resistance and is often a complication of obesity. Weight loss can result in improvement. Acanthosis nigricans may also arise in various endocrine syndromes and rarely, as a paraneoplastic phenomenon. The skin thickening may be lessened with the help of keratolytic creams.

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