Dry Flaky skin on scrotum

[mikeb32]

I have dry, red, and cracking skin on my scrotum and the skin will seem to shed off.  After the skin has shed off the skin underneath is very red, then turns shiny and cracks, and in a day or two is shedding again.  The problem started with a small spot and has started making more spots that are now connecting and i even have a couple on the shaft of my penis.  I have had this problem now for over a year and would really like to find an answer because I have tried not overwashing the area, applying lotion, neosporen, nothing has worked.  Any idea on what it might be?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

I cannot confirm anything without examination,but it sounds like eczema.It is a form of chronic dermatitis (rash).Allergic reaction is one of the important causes of eczema. Allergic reaction can occur to strong soaps, Solvents, chemicals, certain foods, food additives, plants, metals, cosmetics, even urine and faeces of some animals (dust mites).

Wash the areas several times with fresh water. 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. You can take some OTC oral antihistamine medications like Benadryl or Claritin and see if it helps.

For mild-moderate eczema a weak steroid may be used (e.g. hydrocortisone as dermacort), whilst more severe cases require a higher-potency steroid (e.g. clobetasol propionate, fluocinonide).

Eczema can be exacerbated by dryness of the skin. Use good quality moisturizers to prevent moisture loss from the skin.

If still the symptoms do not improve then pls get a clinical examination done by a dermatologist.Atopic dermatitis,psoriasis, ichthyosis (fish scale-like skin) or pitted keratolysis have to be ruled out.

I hope that helps. Please do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional doubts.Warm regards.