Not Lichens Simplex

Afer 3-4 months of a burning sensation on my scrotum characterized by a 'red' look with burning, a local doctor diagnosed lichens simplex chronicus and prescribed methylprednisolone 4mg dospak along with betamethasone cream. In fact I had a tube of the beta and was using it before I even went to the doctor. It provided minor relief. After completing a week of the dospak with beta, I am still where I began. My readings show lichens to be characterized by a red bumpy surface and itching. I have the red surface with burning, no surface eruptions and very little itching at all. It seems to be worse on the left side, however, I occasionally get the same sensation on the right side. This whole issue started with a sweaty feeling on my scrotum area which I have never had in my 61 years. I am a hygiene freak, keep the area clean and dry, wear only 100% cotton underwear....frankly, no underwear is the most comfortable. I recently, end of May, relocated from Connecticut to Florida...not sure if excessive humidity...??? Looking for help. Thanks

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to eczema, fungal infection, psoriasis or lichen simplex. Psoriasis is a long-term (chronic) skin problem that causes skin cells to grow too quickly, resulting in thick, white, silvery, or red patches of skin.It is thought that psoriasis occurs when the immune system overreacts, causing inflammation and flaking of skin.

I suggest you to get a biopsy skin done to confirm the diagnosis. 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.