What Causes A Discolored Patch Of Skin In The Middle Of The Chest That Burns While Applying Perfume?

Posted on Sat, 19 May 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 19 May 2018 Answered on

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi doctor

As you can see attached photo you can see that there is a patch of different color than my skin in located inbetween my chest. (Shaved area) I shaved it to be clear to see.

This thing i have had for more than 3 years, it did not spread but I feel now it’s becoming more obvious to myself. What could this be ?

It doesn’t itch
It doesn’t burn
It’s not painful

It is just visible and it can only burn if I sprayed perfume on it

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Fungal infection

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for the query and photograph.
It is looking like a superficial fungal infection.
I treat such cases with a topical antifungal cream like clotrimazole to be applied twice daily for a month.
It is safe and effective.
This should help you.
Let me know if you have any other doubts.
Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (3 hours later)

Thank you doctor for your reply

2 questions :

Can my symptom be misdiagnosed for another cause or is it 100% fungal ?

If it’s a fungal infection , what are the causes?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Fungal infection

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for the follow up.
White patches are either superficial fungal infection or vitiligo.
In vitiligo the skin is totally depigmented while in fungal infection the skin is hypopigmented as in your case.
Fungal infections are common in hairy areas where the fungus gets suitable environment to grow.
You can even use ketoconazole soap for faster relief
Let me know if you have any other doubts.
Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng