HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

What Causes Dark Brown Discolouration In Calf And Shin?

default
Posted on Mon, 11 May 2015
Question: My shins and half way around my calves have dark brown discoloration. It began and blotchy places on my feet and legs whenever I was in the sun after having heavy radiation in my brain for the remains of a brain tumor removal. My oncologist said it was because of having radiation. My Dad has darkened areas on his shins, but no radiation. I have had ultrasound procedures to check on my veins and arteries if there was any sort of blockages up to my hips ---- result was that everything is good - no problems for someone who is 65.
Every time I get in the sun even with sunscreen, my skin gets darker and more splotchiness in areas of my lower legs and feet that don't have the dark brown skin. Sometimes there is redness and some swelling, but the ultrasound procedures didn't show any vascular problems this Spring. This has been going on for since 2008. Do you have any ideas?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (10 hours later)
Brief Answer:
sun damage

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for your question.
It is possible that the radiation did cause some sensitivity in your skin. What you describe however sounds like old sun damage. Any of us who have had repeated sun exposures to our skin over years can get some sun damage to the skin. This can show up and dark splotches when we begin to get sun exposure. The best thing to do is to use sun screen. This will minimize the splotchiness.
It is good that you had the ultrasound and that it was negative.
Regards,
Dr. Robinson
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Kathy Robinson

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1989

Answered : 3535 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
What Causes Dark Brown Discolouration In Calf And Shin?

Brief Answer: sun damage Detailed Answer: Hello and thank you for your question. It is possible that the radiation did cause some sensitivity in your skin. What you describe however sounds like old sun damage. Any of us who have had repeated sun exposures to our skin over years can get some sun damage to the skin. This can show up and dark splotches when we begin to get sun exposure. The best thing to do is to use sun screen. This will minimize the splotchiness. It is good that you had the ultrasound and that it was negative. Regards, Dr. Robinson