Psoriasis/herpes/ringworms

[tikalmi]

About 6 months ago, I moved in with a friend.  My daughter contracted a ringworm, from an unknown source.  It was overlooked for awhile as I thought it was just dandruff.  After moving out, I noticed that every time I went over to my friend's house, the next day I would have (what appeared to be) a ringworm.  In the last 6 months, I've had (4) "ringworms."  One on each arm and then two on my left butt cheek.  In different places.  Now, I'm concerned!  I'm not sure if it is a ringworm, psoriasis, or possibly herpes!!!!  I have been diagnosed with psoriasis and also HSV 1.  The only thing is all the lesions appeared in totally different places, never in the same spot-like herpes typically does.  Does anyone have any advice to give about this problem?  It's becoming a real nuisance.  Thanks

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms it can be ringworm or nummular dermatitis. Ringworm is a fungal infection and nummular dermatitis is a type of eczema and allergic reaction is one of the commonest symptom. To confirm the diagnosis however you need to consult a dermatologist as both present as ring like itchy lesions. Treatment is different for both.

I hope it helps. Take care and regards.

[tikalmi]

they start off as a small bump and then within a day or so it's this red, round lesion.  It itches a lot and is not larger than a dime.  The last two left spots behind that are slowly fading away.  The last one I started treating with neosporin, zinc oxide and muripocin....I noticed it on Sunday and today, it has dried and started healing.  There is no longer a scab or anything, just a faded red spot.  It also does not itch anymore.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Please describe the rash so that we can help you in confirming the diagnosis. Ringworm is an itchy, contagious fungal infection that presents as circular or ring like lesion. Herpes presents with red itchy blisters which scab over. Herpes simplex is most easily transmitted by direct contact with a lesion or the body fluid of an infected individual. 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 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.