Clumps of small Globules under skin of Fingers

[Guillermo]

Greetings,



My question today centers on a nagging problem which I have had for the past two years. Every now and then I will develop the following symptoms and conditions on the skin of my fingers.



   a). Itchy skin followed by visible small clumps of globules.

   b). Within a day or two these clumps begin to spread causing

       increased minor swelling and itchiness.



I visited my dermatologist last year for this problems and his diagnosis believe it or not was a fungus caused by nervousness.  After explaining to the doctor that I am a healthy 37 year old male who is in good health both physically & mentally, he still insisted on his  nervous diagnosis and prescribed the following ointment which has not worked:  Oxistat Cream 1%( 30 g.).



I left his office wondering what the heck is being taught to medical students now a days?  Can you please help?



P.S.

      1.  I have also used Diprolene AF cream: 0.05%

      2.  Zinc oxide ointment skin protectant

      3.  Lamisil ointment/over the counter and Lamisil tablets 250 mgs for two months (these worked but the problem has returned)

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Dear none:



My best guess is that you have dyshidrosis, a common, inscrutable, and minor skin affliction which produces little blisters on the palms and/or soles.  It isn't fungal, nor are "nerves" likely to be onvolved.  (Not that we have a clue as to what else might cause it.)  The condition comes and goes.  Topical steroids (like Diprolene) help a bit, if the symptoms are worth the trouble.



Causes for most things are unknown, which is one reason "nerves" and "stress" get blamed a lot.



As to what kids learn nowadays . . . . .



Best.



Dr. Rockoff



PS:  I hope your moniker (and in lower case yet) does not reflect low self-esteem!)

[Chancy]

I too am looking at several crescent shaped discolorations under the skin near the nail. Maybe the same thing?  One extends to the cuticle.  They have the same appearance as scar tissue on other parts of my hand like an oven burn or old scratches. Wonder what they are?