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Rash in one armpit

Hi, I have a rash in my left armpit that started out as small bumps then began to grow into scaly patches. These scaly patches then grew into patches that resemble a scab like if you scraped your elbow or knees (brownish in color and firm).  Eventually, these would fall off leaving normal skin underneath only to have it happen again shortly after.  I saw a dermotologist who said it looked like seborrhea and prescribed Clarifoam EF and Oxistat.  Neither of these seemed to do the trick and I have lost my health insurance and can't afford to go back to the doctor.  I haven't found anyone who seemed to describe what I have and i can't find any images of other irritations that look like mine (rosacea, eczema, etc.)  Any other ideas?  The rash doesn't itch or hurt, but it is unsightly and a nuissance.  Thank you very much.
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Avatar universal
Thanks Dr. Veena for your response.  I have seen a dermatologist and the prescription medicine that I was given did not help the condition that I have, so I am doubting it is Seborrhea.  Also, I am a male, so I am not pregnant or lactating.  If there are any other possibilities on what it can be please help.  If you don't mind reading my original post again for the details it would be very very appreciated.  Thanks again.
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Avatar universal
Hi,
     Thanks for writing in. Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a common skin condition affecting millions. It shows up as flaking skin, or reddish patches. Unlike people with dry skin, the skin in people with seborrhoeic dermatitis is usually oily. In adults seborrhoeic dermatitis usually affects the scalp, eyebrows, ear canals, sides of the nose, and behind the ears. It sometimes affects the armpits, chest and in the groin area.

Stress, fatigue (pregnancy / lactation in your case), weather extremes, oily skin and infrequent shampooing or skin cleaning & severe medical illnesses make it worse.  People with seborrhoeic dermatitis produce too much sebum (the natural skin oil). Later, pityrosporum yeast, grows excessively in the sebum, sometime along with bacteria, making the dermatitis more persistent.

Basic treatment consists of using shampoos containing zinc pyrithione , selenium sulfide or ketoconazole. You can use bland emollients or a suitable low potency steroid (let me suggest you desonide lotion twice daily) for you. Sodium sulfacetamide-sulfur lotion too can be used if you are not allergic to sulfa products. Please consult a local dermatologist before acting on my information as only he shall be able to give you the right picture.
Best.
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