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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?
Lichen sclerosus
Is any treatment appropriate?
White dry plaques with a crinkly or 'cigarette-paper' surface are likely to be due to extragenital lichen sclerosus (LS). Females are likely to have vulval LS, where it is much more likely to present with symptoms of itch and soreness. Topical steroids tend to be more beneficial on genital LS than on cutaneous disease.