The Basics
Written by the doctors and editors at UpToDate � �
What is tinea nigra? " � Tinea nigra is a skin infection that causes tan, brown, or black patches on the skin. It is caused by a fungus. � �
Tinea nigra is most common in areas where the weather is hot and humid. People whose hands or feet sweat a lot are more likely to get it. This is because the fungus that causes tinea nigra grows best in warm, wet places. � �
Tinea nigra is not "contagious. " � That means it does not usually spread from one person to another. � �
What are the symptoms of tinea nigra? " � The main symptom is tan, brown, or black patches on the skin. These are most common on certain body parts, such as: � �
- Palm or back of the hand " � This usually happens in just one hand.
- Bottom of the foot
- Arms or legs
- Neck
- Chest, back, or belly
The brown or black patches might look darker around the edges. They do not usually itch, hurt, or cause any other symptoms. � �
Should I see a doctor or nurse? " � Tinea nigra is not dangerous. But a type of skin cancer called "melanoma " � can also cause brown or black spots on the skin. If you get a new brown or black spot on your skin, ask your doctor or nurse to check it. � �
Is there a test for tinea nigra? " � Yes. After learning about your symptoms and doing an exam, your doctor or nurse will probably scrape one of the brown or black patches. Then he or she will look at the scrapings under a microscope. This test does not usually hurt. � �
If you have tinea nigra, the doctor or nurse will see the fungus that causes it in the scrapings from your skin. He or she might also use a special light to look at your skin. � �
How is tinea nigra treated? " � The doctor or nurse can prescribe a cream or ointment to put on your skin. This usually makes tinea nigra go away. � �
If the cream or ointment does not work, the doctor or nurse can prescribe medicine you take by mouth. This medicine kills the fungus that causes tinea nigra. � �
All topics are updated as new evidence becomes available and our peer review process is complete. � �
This topic retrieved from UpToDate on: Nov 04, 2014. � �
Topic 83426 Version 2.0 � �
Release: 22.8 - C22.208 � �
� � 2014 UpToDate, Inc. All rights reserved. � �
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you.The use of UpToDate content is governed by the UpToDate Terms of Use. � �2014 UpToDate, Inc. All rights reserved. � �
Copyright
� � 2014 UpToDate, Inc. All rights reserved. � �