Possible Skin Conditions

Here you will find pictures of several conditions that affect the adult armpit. Because the armpit is a skin fold and contains hair, it is subject to certain conditions that do not affect other parts of the body. Erythrasma and acanthosis nigrans are conditions that involve a darkening of skin fold areas. They are common in skin people who are obese or have diabetes. In women, acanthosis nigrans can be caused by polycystic ovarian disease or use of steroids or contraceptives. Folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles that may necessitate antibiotics or drainage if an abscess develops. Sometimes deodorants or detergents can cause irritant contact dermatitis or allergic contact dermatitis. The armpit is also a common site for skin tags (acrochordons), which are small out-growths of skin that are harmless but sometimes not appealing to the person who has them.