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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.
What is wrong with this armpit?
Neurofibromatosis
Is any treatment appropriate?
Axillary freckling, or a brown mark with peripheral freckling, is characteristic of neurofibromatosis type 1. Multiple café au lait macules are common from early childhood. Cutaneous, subcutaneous, nodular and diffuse plexiform neurofibromas may arise during adult life. These may be excised individually if desired. Look out for signs that tumours are affecting the central nervous system.