Itching and redness following allergy injections.

In January, 2010, I began giving myself two allergy shots each week.  On April 1, 2010, I began to itch 10 to 12 days each month.  My chest and back broke out into a rash which has sinced moved to my scalp and the tops of my feet.  I have been to a Dermotologist, an Immunologist and a GP.  I have been put through every test possible for this condition and nothing has turned up.  The Dermotologist diagnosed a biopsy as Grover's Disease.  When I went to Norway for two weeks this summer, my condition improved significantly (I didn't take my allergy shot vials and needles because of the security issues I'd have to address.)  Both my wife and I thought that the cooler weather in Norway improved my condition, but I now wonder if this rash and insatiable itching is a reaction to my allergy shots.  I normally take the shots on Wednesday morning; but this week, I forgot the shots until Thursday night.  The itching began stronger than ever around eleven p.m. and continued throughout the day today.  Are there others that have these symptoms after allergy shots?  I don't believe that I have Grover's Disease because there are no dermatologic creams that have any effect on the itching.  HELP.  Any suggestions will be appreciated.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
If the biopsy report has confirmed the diagnosis as Grover’s disease then it is a strong possibility. It is a medical condition affecting the chest and back in men over 50 years of age. Biopsy is a quite confirmatory test for this disease.  Use a mild cleanser with moisturizing properties like Cetaphil. Also use cotton clothes and change the clothes twice if there is any increased sweating. Try keeping the skin free of sweat as far as possible. If the symptoms still persist then you can apply mild steroid like dermacort. For the itching antihistaminics like Benadryl or Claritin can be taken.

Moisturizers containing camphor and menthol, calcopotriol cream and oral tetracycline or an oral antifungal medication such as itraconazole is also helpful. In severe cases, topical and oral steroids can be given.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.