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Dermatology (Expert Forum)
Red Areas on Both Legs
Answered by
Alan Rockoff, MD - dermatology, Child Skin Problems
The Rockoff Dermatology Center
Brookline - MA
Welcome to the DERMATOLOGY FORUM! Questions in this forum are answered by Dermatologists from St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital, under the direction of Andrew Alexis, M.D., M.P.H.
Red Areas on Both Legs
by RedLeggedSally, Apr 27, 2007 12:00AM
I have a slightly raised purplish red 3" x 3" area on each leg about 3-4" above the ankle. The area and surrounding area feels hard to the touch but there is no pain or itching. I've had it for a few months now and tried gold bond medicated cream and regular moisturizer. Sometimes it is slightly flaky but usually not. It doesn't appear to be dry skin and at first I thought it could be a reaction to the elastic in my socks, but then I would not wear any socks for several days and there would be no change. It is in the front only and does not go all the way around the leg. I'm a 55 yr old 330 lb woman who is in reasonably good health. I have had problems with edema and currently take 40 mg of furosemide with my atenolol daily. I suffer with RLS (restless legs syndrome) and take mirapex for that. I have herniated discs at the L4 and L5 which are pressing on nerves, but the pain from that is in other areas of the leg and NOT in the red areas. I have not shaved or used depillatories for fear of aggravating the situation. Can you tell me what this is and how to get rid of it? Thank you.
Doctor's Answer
by Alan Rockoff, MD, Apr 27, 2007 12:00AM
, Apr 27, 2007 12:00AM
It sounds like eczema, which would require a topical cortisone cream to get better. Fungus is possible too, but less likely. I suggest you get an over-the-counter antifungal cream (clotrimazole, Lamisil) and try that twice a day for 2 weeks. If that fails, you'll need to see a doctor in person. I don't see any connection with the other medical problems and medications you mention.
Best.
Dr. Rockoff
Best.
Dr. Rockoff
