What Could Cause Darkening Of Facial Skin And Weight Loss After Returning From Asia?

Posted on Thu, 14 Jun 2018

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

Thu, 14 Jun 2018 Answered on

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 Last reviewed on

Question : Friend returned from China and other parts of Asia after a month and developed a flushed face and lost 20 pounds with a month or so. All tests came back negative. No other symptoms, no pain or anything. Now, her flushed red face is getting darker. any concerns?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (26 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Regarding darkening of facial skin

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Perhaps the flushed red face was due to the heat and strong sun causing it to sunburn and now it is manifesting as tanning.

Please let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards

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

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Kakkar (3 hours later)

it's been over a year. don't think it's sunburn

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (29 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Regarding facial skin

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

I will keep a possibility of lichen planus pigmentosus. I suggest a few basic investigations like CBC, Kidney and Liver function tests, Thyroid screening, Vitamin B 12 levels, HIV, HCV and HBsAg, ANA etc. I suggest a broad spectrum sunscreen to be used throughout the day. At night I suggest a Kojic acid or hydroquinone based cream.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad