Rash does not seem to be Pityriasis Rosea

I have had a strange rash for a few months now.  I have approximately 6 red areas on my back and legs, each about the size of a quarter.  It started with one spot on my calf and more have gradually followed.  They are quite red and the skin feels thick. When they first appear they seem like many small blisters clustered together forming a quarter sized spot.  After a week or so the blisters dry up but the area continues to be red and develops scales.  Last year I had the same thing and they did eventually go away after 6 months or so, but left the skin in the area slightly brown and I can still see where the spots had been.  They are itchy, especially at the blistering stage. I have not been exposed to poison ivy or any other such irritant.
I have tried various treatments but the rash hasn't responded at all.  I thought it could be ringworm so I tried an anti-fungal which actually seemed to irritate it more.  I also tried an antibacterial wipe and cream.  I tried cortisone as well.  Each treatment I stuck with for 2 - 3 weeks but none of them seemed to help at all.
When I had this problem last year I went to the doctor and he said it was pityriasis rosea.  I understand that generally does not recur, and here I have it again.  Is there any other explanation for this rash?
I have included a picture of the spot in it's secondary, scaley stage.
Do you have any idea what this rash could be or what treatment I should try?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It is difficult to confirm anything without examination but it can be granuloma annulare, pityriasis rosea or nummular dermatitis. Granuloma annulare is a chronic disease consisting of a rash with reddish bumps arranged in a circle or ring. Usually it is asymptomatic but due to cosmetic disfigurement topical or oral steroids may be needed.
My sincere advice is to get it evaluated from 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 dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.