What causes white patches to appear on the skin?
Disease description:
My skin has been extremely itchy over the past two days, and I’ve also noticed some white patches. What could be causing these white patches on my skin?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Li Ruizhi
White patches appearing on the skin may be dandruff (scale), which commonly occurs when the weather turns cooler and drier, leading to dry skin. Alternatively, these patches could be hypopigmented or depigmented lesions—such as those caused by fungal infection (e.g., tinea versicolor), or by inherited skin conditions like psoriasis or vitiligo. It is advisable to seek prompt medical evaluation at a hospital; treatment—including topical antifungal or other appropriate medications—should be administered under a physician’s guidance.
