Infected after a camping trip....

Hello.  =o)

I recently went on a camping trip which included bathing in a stream.  When I returned (after just 2 days), I noticed a series of itchy red bumps, all in a row on my leg.  They seem to be filled with fluid, and are hard like the skin is stretched tight.  These small blisters weep.  After scratching them they burst, but now there are more little bumps, all in the same line, still hard to the touch.  They're about the size of these lower case o's:

ooooo

What could I have??

Thank you so much for offering this service.  =o)
It is much appreciated.

Sincerely,
Jennifer

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Most likely this is poison ivy, in which case the blister fluid is NOT catchy, and a mild localized case goes away by itself.  Another possibilty is insect bites, which will also go away.  Unless the rash spreads, I would just keep the area clean, apply bacitracin or neosporin once a day, and wear long pants next time.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff