Recurrent poison ivy

[saric]

I contracted poison ivy last summer (a year ago) on my chest and forearm. It took a long time to clear up, at least 2 months. I had a recurrence of the rash in the same exact place on my chest a few months later, which I had assumed was a re-exposure to the urushiol.  Again, it took many weeks to clear up. I did not use any cream or medication apart from Calamine.  Now, the rash has recurred a few MORE times since then and I am positive there has not been any direct exposure to poison ivy or its oil.  I even threw out all my old bra's in case they were contaminated with the urushiol and causing rexposure.  Has anyone ever heard of this or experienced it? Did my initial exposure permanently damage the nerves in that area or something?  I used over the counter hydrocortisone cream for a week to no effect.  Then I used prescription hydrocortisone cream for 2 wks which helped, but 2 weeks later the rash is back: pruritic, patchy eruption. It has never been a classic poison ivy rash like I've seen in photos. Any input is appreciated.

[arp09]

Hi there! I have experienced something very similar to that myself. In fact I never thought it was poison ivy. I thought it was heat rash or a fungal infection since it occurred in areas that would get warm and moist as the day went along and I perspired; an example would have been under my bra line on my back and front under both breasts and the middle of my sternum where my bra had crossed. I just put anti fungal Gold Bond foot powder on since I had not had insurance then. Hope it helps for when you ask your doctor again what it could be. Good luck!


arp09

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It does not sound like recurrent poison ivy rash without any contact with the poison ivy.It can be fungal infection,heat rash,sweat dermatitis or intertrigo.

An intertrigo is an inflammation (rash) of the body folds.It most commonly occurs due to bacterial,viral or fungal infection. An intertrigo usually appears red and raw-looking, and may also itch, ooze, and be sore.

Pls keep the area clean and apply some topical antiseptics. Also wear loose-fitting cotton clothing and use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove.Avoid any kind of cosmetics.Topical zinc oxide cream like Sudocrem, Desitin are very helpful(apply with a paper towel and not directly with hands).Application of mild steroid cream like dermacort also helps.For the itching pls take some over the counter antihistaminic like benadryl or Claritin.In case the symptoms persist then antifungals may be needed.Pls consult a dermatologist in that case.

Hope it helps. Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or in case you have additional queries. Kind regards.