Mrs

I have developed a condition, mainly on the fingertips and nail area, about 20 months ago.  It seems to flare up and subside briefly.  Just prior to the skin cracking and breaking open, the fingertip has an unpleasant smell, I get an upset stomach, a cracked top lip and an itchy sensation on my lower neck / chest area.  It is getting progressively worse and one nail is almost completely destroyed.  The skin around the nail cracks right open very quickly and peels off and is extremely painful.  I have had a patch test done which has indicated an allergy to PPD. It has been suggested that it could either be an allergy or stress related.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Cracking of the fingertips may be an allergy.  I suggest that you consult a dermatologist about possible allergy (patch) testing, as well as topical cortisone cream treatment.  Stress may make such a rash worse, but doesn't cause it.  As to the smell, upset stomach, cracked lip, and itchy neck, I have no idea what connection these might have with the fingers.

Take care.

Dr. Rockoff