Chromophytosis

Chromophytosis is a parasitic affection characterized by the appearance of yellowish-brown spots on the skin.

The discolored spots are in the beginning small and irregularly scattered over the invaded surface. They are very sligthly, if at all, elevated, and are covered with minute, barely perceptible scales. The affection is usually confined to the trunk and upper extremities, almost never appearing on the lower limbs. Its favorite seat is the chest and back; but it may spread to the neck and down upon the abdomen, and upon the arm between the shoulder and elbow. The macules may be very numerous, and many of them not larger than a pea; or they may coalesce by mutual extension, and form patches of considerable size.

The progress of the affection is slow; and it is not uncommon to meet with cases in which the lesions have existed for several years. It is sometimes met with in the strong and hearty, but most commonly in those who are enfeebled by chronic disease, and is especially frequent in those who are suffering from phthisis or syphilis. It was, in fact, at one time classed as a symptom of phthisis. This was, of course, before the true nature of the disease had been ascertained. It is usually more noticeable in winter than in summer, a fact explainable by the lighter clothing and more frequent ablutions in warm than in cold weather. Itching is sometimes present, but is rarely severe enough to seriously incommode the patient.