Ankle Rash

Anyone have any idea what this ankle rash is and how to treat it?  It itches and has increased and decreased in redness and itchiness over the last year. I thought it would go away on its own by now but I have been wrong. Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks

James

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to lichen simplex chronicus or stasis dermatitis. Wash the areas several times with fresh water and do not use any cosmetic products at the sites. You can apply some calamine lotion at the rash as it will help in soothing the skin. She can take some OTC oral antihistamine medications like Benadryl or Claritin and see if it helps.

Also use mild steroid cream and good quality moisturizers to prevent moisture loss from the skin.

If still the symptoms do not improve then please get a clinical examination done by a dermatologist.
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 dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.