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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?
Fox-Fordyce disease
Is any treatment appropriate?
Grouped follicular papules confined to the vault of the axillae arise in adolescent or adult women with Fox-Fordyce disease. They are due to plugs of trapped aprocrine sweat. The ducts may rupture, when they tend to cause intense itch. Various topical antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agents have been used with unpredictable success.