PLEASE HELP: Strange skin condition in rectum/groin

For the last 7 days I've had very red skin around rectum. I work several hours outdoors and 2-3 weeks ago we had a terrible heat wave (30-37+) that lasted for about 1 week. However, it all started with some itching in that area in early December (also from heat) which I treated with an antifungal cream (Canesten Bifonazole). As it persisted, I used Savlon for some days and then DermAid, this last one recommended by the pharmacist and used only for one week. After that, it went all fine and the itching stopped, until the heatwave started. I tried to get rid of that very annoying itching with DermAid (very bad mistake apparently, as it has hydrocortisone) and then put Savlon one last time, which is when the skin there all went red, with some skin peeled in circles of 1-2 mm diameter around that area and in the lower groin. Due to work commitments I haven't seen a dermatologist yet (I'm going next Tuesday though) but would like to know of some relieve to this condition. As I said it has stayed exactly like that for 7 days and it's very annoying and worrying.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
There are many possibilities for your symptoms like moisture(due to sweating or frequent washing), the abrasion caused by clothing, the pressure of sitting, chemical irritants like laundry soaps, colognes and scented toilet paper, and skin problems such as psoriasis, seborrhea and eczema. You have to get yourself examined to find out the cause. You should wash the area after bowel movement with wet tissue; avoid soap, pat dry with toilet paper; can use over the counter creams or ointment containing mild steroids.

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.