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Suggest Treatment For Itchy Rash On Lower Legs
Question: I have had a rash on my lower leg, that itches and burns. I have had steroid shots, creams, and nothing helps. It varies in color from light red to dark red. I have had this for over two years it's embarrassing I constantly scratch at my legs. My right leg is worse than the left. I have not changed any soaps, etc. I stay with one brand. I have tried every over the counter med. Poison Oak/Ivy Scabbies have been ruled out. What could this be?
Brief Answer:
lichenn planus
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for your question.
The photos look like lichen planus but if it were that then the steroids should have calmed it down. I would try getting rid of all chemical and only use hypoallergenic soaps and creams on your legs. Your best chance for a definitive diagnosis is to see a dermatologist and get a skin biopsy to try ad make the diagnosis.
Good luck
Dr. Robinson
lichenn planus
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for your question.
The photos look like lichen planus but if it were that then the steroids should have calmed it down. I would try getting rid of all chemical and only use hypoallergenic soaps and creams on your legs. Your best chance for a definitive diagnosis is to see a dermatologist and get a skin biopsy to try ad make the diagnosis.
Good luck
Dr. Robinson
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
I've done that and also seen a dermatologist but have not had a biopsy done. I have no health insurance and have run out of money. Is there any over the counter med's I can use to help clear it up and relieve the itch and the burning? What causes this?
Brief Answer:
not sure of cause
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for your follow up.
We are not sure of the cause of lichen planus. It may be some sort of auto-immune disorder. The only way to be sure it is lichen planus is with a biopsy. The only over the counter thing that may help is hydrocortisone but you really need a stronger prescription steroid for it to be effective. Trying to get rid of all chemicals on your skin that may be flaring it up by using hypoallergenic products is a good idea. Also getting your diet really clean by eating no processed food and getting rid of dairy and wheat helps in some people. It is worth a try to work on your diet some. In some patients this makes a big improvement.
I hope you get some relief soon
Dr. Robinson
not sure of cause
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for your follow up.
We are not sure of the cause of lichen planus. It may be some sort of auto-immune disorder. The only way to be sure it is lichen planus is with a biopsy. The only over the counter thing that may help is hydrocortisone but you really need a stronger prescription steroid for it to be effective. Trying to get rid of all chemicals on your skin that may be flaring it up by using hypoallergenic products is a good idea. Also getting your diet really clean by eating no processed food and getting rid of dairy and wheat helps in some people. It is worth a try to work on your diet some. In some patients this makes a big improvement.
I hope you get some relief soon
Dr. Robinson
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
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