black marks on back - #16472
I am really worried about these black marks on my back. They kinda showed up out of nowhere last month and at first, I thought it was just some weird reaction to maybe a new laundry detergent or something. But then, they started to itch a bit. Not all the time, but sometimes when I'm sweating or after a shower. The black marks on my back are so odd looking—they're like these little dark spots, some are raised a little while others are flat. I had a friend mention that they could be moles or maybe even a fungal thing, but I’m not too convinced. I mean, I’ve had moles before, but these black marks on my back seem different somehow. I went to a walk-in clinic last week, and the doc kinda brushed it off, saying it was "nothing to worry about" but my gut tells me something's off. I've googled a bunch, and now I'm in a rabbit hole of skin conditions and it's freaking me out! I can’t help but wonder if anyone else has had these black marks on their back and what it could be?! Should I get a second opinion, or are there any other tests you guys think I should ask for?
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Doctors’ responses
When dealing with new or changing marks on your skin, especially those appearing suddenly or with symptoms like itching, it’s wise to seek further evaluation to rule out various possibilities. While some skin changes can be benign, such as moles, others might require closer attention. Based on your description, there are several conditions that could potentially match what you’re experiencing. If the marks are indeed flat or raised, ranging in texture and size, they might be related to various types of benign skin growths like seborrheic keratoses, which are generally harmless. Another possibility could include a benign clustering of melanocytes, resulting in moles. However, given your symptoms of itching, and their recent appearance, there is also the potential for a fungal infection such as tinea versicolor, which can manifest as darker or lighter spots due to yeast on the skin, though typically it doesn’t itch a lot.
One thing to definitely consider is visiting a dermatologist for a more thorough examination. They can conduct a dermatoscopic evaluation, which allows closer inspection of the lesion’s structures that aren’t visible to the naked eye. If any of these spots have irregular borders, are multicolored, or start changing in size or shape, a biopsy might be recommended to exclude any malignant processes, like melanoma. Considering these spots are causing you anxiety and discomfort, getting a specialized opinion might offer you some peace of mind. If cost or availability is an issue with seeing a dermatologist, documenting the evolution of these spots through photos can be helpful at a follow-up visit with any healthcare provider. Meanwhile, try to maintain good skin hygiene, avoid potential irritants like new detergents, and protect your skin from excessive sun exposure which can exacerbate some skin conditions.
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