What Do Dark Spots On The Knuckles Of Both Hands Indicate?

Posted on Sat, 1 Apr 2017

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

Sat, 1 Apr 2017 Answered on

Mon, 24 Apr 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello, I recently noticed that I have dark spots on the knuckles on both hands. I am african-american female who had my glucose level checked yesterday and it was 75. I have been taking Tramadol for over a year...which is the only medicine that's been added during the past year. I would like to know why the dark spots appeared.

Answered by Dr. Geeta Sundar (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Tramadol is a narcotic and addictive

Detailed Answer:
Hi, welcome to HealthcareMagic,

Do the spots itch?
Are there any other similar spots on the body?
Are they raised?

Tramadol can cause skin reactions on long term use.
Tramadol can cause other minor side effects
But it can also cause fits, breathing difficulty, and kidney damage which can be serious.
Why was it prescribed?
It is a narcotic and addictive and the earlier you withdraw from it, the better.

Can you send me a picture? You can simply upload/attach it at the reports section of this web page.

Please revert back.

Awaiting..
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee

Follow up: Dr. Geeta Sundar (27 minutes later)

I also take medication for hypertension and cholesterol medication. I've been on those two meds for years w/o any skin reactions. I mentioned Tramadol (for arthritis discomfort) because it's the latest medication added. The spots on my knuckles are much darker than my natural skin coloration and do not appear on any other parts of my body.

Answered by Dr. Geeta Sundar (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
it could be any of the medicines.

Detailed Answer:
Hi it could be any of the medicines.
Stop Tramadol and see first.
You can try a paste of turmeric, lemon juice and Yoghurt locally. It will lighten the skin.
Wishing you the best.
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D