Sounds like it could be a bacterial infection. Try to get a pic if you can. Is the fish eating? If so, what have you been feeding it? How long have you had it? Can you describe your setup and basic water parameters?
If you move quickly to correct any issues with water quality and/or diet it may clear up. If you don't see improvement in the first few days it maybe necessary to setup a hospital tank and plan to treat with an antibiotic.