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What Causes Hyperpigmentation On The Earlobes While Having Diabetes?

Posted on Sat, 22 Apr 2017

Question: My name is XXXX and am mcurrently based in XXXXXXX I've been a diabetic since 6 years and am on medications. Glycomet GP1, forxiga 5 mg, and Glucobay M 25.

Since the last few years, my ear lobes are getting black. It becomes thick also. When i wash with Cetaphil OS, the thickness reduces but the discolouration remains the same. Now my face is also getting darker.What could be the reason? What can be done?

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Seems to be acanthosis nigricans, upload pictures

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for being at HealthcareMagic
According to your complaints it could be acanthosis nigricans which is thickening and hyperpigmentation of skin associated with insulin resistance, diabetes and overweight.
I would recommend you to upload the photographs of the affected areas so that I can have a clearer picture of the condition and can guide you accordingly.
Regards
Dr Asmeet

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana

Follow up: Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (1 hour later)

Hi, I have provided some attachments. Please review them.

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (31 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Answer few questions

Detailed Answer:
I have reviewed the attached photographs and need to ask you few questions:
Do you apply hair XXXXXXX ?
Is the pigmentation associated with itching?
Do you have excessive sun exposure?
Kindly revert with the answers.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana

Follow up: Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (34 minutes later)

Dear Doctor,

I do not apply hair XXXXXXX
there is no itching or discomfort.
There is not much sun-exposure, but occasionally yes.

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (10 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Triple combination cream and sunscreen

Detailed Answer:
If I was your treating doctor I would recommend you to apply a depigmenting cream containing triple combination Mometasone, tretinoin and Hydroquinone on the dark areas at night along with application of a broad spectrum sunscreen on the entire face and ears during the day time.
Various brands containing triple combination available in the market are melalite XL cream, HH lite cream and Melapik cream.
You can use either of the above once daily at night.
It is a prescription drug and should be used under a doctor's supervision.

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. Nagamani Ng