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Have Stasis Dermatitis. Applying Hydro-cortisone. Noticed Thinning Of Skin, Cracked Bleeds. Ulcers?

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Posted on Sun, 24 Jun 2012
Question: I have stasis dermatitis.I am 61,male, about 1m/70cm tall.about 90 kilos.I apply a hydro-cortisone.I have noticed a thinning of the skin around the ankles and developed cracked bleeds which seemed to have
started to heal.Without this cream the inflammation increases.I am worried about developing ulcers(how should these be treated?)
doctor
Answered by Dr. Andrew Rynne MD (42 minutes later)
Hi there XXXXXXX

Thank you for posting your question here.

Treating the cause (if any) is important and essential for complete and effective of stasis dermatitis. You do not say what the 'underlying cause' of this stasis is. - If it’s varicose veins then they need to be dealt with aggressively. If heart failure, then likewise.

Hydro-cortisone cream 0.5% is usually optimum in managing the symptoms of stasis dermatitis. Anything stronger and you run the risks of thinning of the skin. Since you have already developed thinning of the skin and cracked lesions (which can occur due to dryness), you may apply topical emollients for few weeks. If you still have itchiness, particularly at night, then you can take an antihistamine like Zyrtrex. A cage over your legs may also help to keep them cool.

Hope this answers your query. I would like to hear about the "underlying cause" responsible for stasis dermatitis in you. Do revert and I'll tell you how I would treat them.

Regards
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad
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Answered by
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Dr. Andrew Rynne MD

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1968

Answered : 298 Questions

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Have Stasis Dermatitis. Applying Hydro-cortisone. Noticed Thinning Of Skin, Cracked Bleeds. Ulcers?

Hi there XXXXXXX

Thank you for posting your question here.

Treating the cause (if any) is important and essential for complete and effective of stasis dermatitis. You do not say what the 'underlying cause' of this stasis is. - If it’s varicose veins then they need to be dealt with aggressively. If heart failure, then likewise.

Hydro-cortisone cream 0.5% is usually optimum in managing the symptoms of stasis dermatitis. Anything stronger and you run the risks of thinning of the skin. Since you have already developed thinning of the skin and cracked lesions (which can occur due to dryness), you may apply topical emollients for few weeks. If you still have itchiness, particularly at night, then you can take an antihistamine like Zyrtrex. A cage over your legs may also help to keep them cool.

Hope this answers your query. I would like to hear about the "underlying cause" responsible for stasis dermatitis in you. Do revert and I'll tell you how I would treat them.

Regards