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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Dry Itchy Patch Under The Arm?

Hi. I am a 22 year old female and lately I ve noticed some changes in my skin. when I was 18, I had a lot of abscesses develop under my arms, and 3 got to the size of golf balls and bigger and had to be drained in the ER. Since the last one cleared up, I haven t had any problems. I use hypoallergenic deodorant and try not to irritate the area because it was very traumatic for me. However, now I am developing a rash under both armpits. It started as a small nickel sized patch of very hard and dry skin under my right arm, and it became itchy and spread. Now I have full on rashes under both arms. I don t wear deodorant and have been cleaning them daily with antibacterial soap. I notice a white film over the top of the rashes in the morning or after I sweat, which I assume to be skin. It s very itchy and burns, and flakes. There have also developed small red bumps all underneath my right armpit now. I just don t know what to do. Also I m not sure if this is related but I am getting small random sores around my hip area and at the top of my buttocks. Thanks for any help or suggestions.
Mon, 21 Mar 2016
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello,
Thank you for your query.

It seems that you may have a fungal skin infection like candidiasis. I would like to rule out psoriasis as well
I would examine the rash, and do a scratch test along with a biopsy, to confirm diagnosis.
You will need anti fungal treatment (oral & systemic probably) over a period of one month at least, if it is a fungal infection.
Psoriasis (an auto immune disorder which may run in families) needs long term therapy, topical & systemic as well suppress as overactive immune system and to promote skin healing. Stress, emotional distress exacerbates psoriasis, so try to relax.
Avoid harsh drying chemicals including antibacterial soap. Use mild soap, even for your hair. Cool baths can help to relieve symptoms
Please consult a dermatologist for accurate diagnosis and treatment at the earliest.
Hope I've answered your query.
Pls let me know if this has been helpful.
Feel free to get back to us for further clarification.
Wish you good health
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What Causes Dry Itchy Patch Under The Arm?

Hello, Thank you for your query. It seems that you may have a fungal skin infection like candidiasis. I would like to rule out psoriasis as well I would examine the rash, and do a scratch test along with a biopsy, to confirm diagnosis. You will need anti fungal treatment (oral & systemic probably) over a period of one month at least, if it is a fungal infection. Psoriasis (an auto immune disorder which may run in families) needs long term therapy, topical & systemic as well suppress as overactive immune system and to promote skin healing. Stress, emotional distress exacerbates psoriasis, so try to relax. Avoid harsh drying chemicals including antibacterial soap. Use mild soap, even for your hair. Cool baths can help to relieve symptoms Please consult a dermatologist for accurate diagnosis and treatment at the earliest. Hope I ve answered your query. Pls let me know if this has been helpful. Feel free to get back to us for further clarification. Wish you good health