Itchy Rash, possible spider bite

[Trivialness]

About 6 days ago I noticed what looked like a spider bite on my right leg, it itched like crazy. I figured it would resolve itself over the next couple of days so mostly ignored it. I then started to notice other spots, they itch the same but look different. two on my left forearm they showed in a linear pattern, and two on my left leg that are also in a similar linear pattern. The rash on my right leg was looking pretty bad so I went to my doctor on Sunday, they gave me doxycycline and I've been cleaning the areas with hydrogen peroxide and applying bacitracin with pain relief for the itching. I haven't really seen any improvement over the past two days and it still itches like crazy no pain just itching, any idea what this may be?

outer left leg
http://tinypic.com/r/zu032t/7
inner left leg
http://tinypic.com/r/96cg11/7
outer forearm
http://tinypic.com/r/2u47bfd/7
The main picture is the primary right leg and inner forearm.

[Trivialness]

I've been taking an oral antihistamine, as-well as applied a topical hydrocortisone. Its looking much better, the redness has faded quite a bit and now has a light pink shade and the inching has also diminished. It looks like everything should clear up in the next couple of days. Thank you for all the help.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to contact dermatitis, allergic reaction or poison ivy rash. 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 symptoms 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). But they are available under prescription and should be taken only after consulting 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 doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[maatson]

Very likely. Should settle down in a week or so. Best wishes.

[Trivialness]

Its possible I go hiking and running every week. Last week I did go hiking in an overgrown trail plants made contact with my arms and legs.

[maatson]

Phytodermatitis(Plant induced) is almost always asymmetrical with a streaky or linear pattern. Did you come in contact? Rt leg is eczematized and would respond to external hydrocortisone. Do consult your doc.