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Dermatology (Expert Forum)
Red patches of skin on face, eyes, ears and hair
Answered by
Alan Rockoff, MD - dermatology, Child Skin Problems
The Rockoff Dermatology Center
Brookline - MA
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Red patches of skin on face, eyes, ears and hair
by Scheckel5150, Jan 07, 2005 12:00AM
Sir,
I'm a 38 year old male and I'm currently being evaluated by a neuromuscular doc (for a yet to be diagnosed neuromuscular disorder, EMG indicated) at the University of Alabama, Birmingham. I'm scheduled for a muscle biopsy, 18 Jan 05.
That being said, I have red patches (looks like dry skin) on my face (under my eyes, either side of nose), in brow, and above eyes. Also, behind my ears and in my ears. Finally, I also have them under my hair (scalp and beard). The red patches are isolated to head. This started in my late 20's and has continued to the present...some days/weeks are worse than others.
I've used the following topical medication in the past (w/ some success): Fluocinoloine Acetonide (USP, 0.01%, 60ml). This med seemed to cause some problems w/ acne...I say "seemed" because in 30+ years I've never had a problem w/ acne...and BAM!...once I used this med...I'm 16 years old.
My Questions:
(1) Are you aware if these symptoms are associated w/ any neuromuscular conditions?
(2) Any thoughts on potential treatments?
(3) Could it be dietary? If so, are there natural remedies you'd recommend?
I thank you in advance for your time/assistance.
V/R,
Steve
I'm a 38 year old male and I'm currently being evaluated by a neuromuscular doc (for a yet to be diagnosed neuromuscular disorder, EMG indicated) at the University of Alabama, Birmingham. I'm scheduled for a muscle biopsy, 18 Jan 05.
That being said, I have red patches (looks like dry skin) on my face (under my eyes, either side of nose), in brow, and above eyes. Also, behind my ears and in my ears. Finally, I also have them under my hair (scalp and beard). The red patches are isolated to head. This started in my late 20's and has continued to the present...some days/weeks are worse than others.
I've used the following topical medication in the past (w/ some success): Fluocinoloine Acetonide (USP, 0.01%, 60ml). This med seemed to cause some problems w/ acne...I say "seemed" because in 30+ years I've never had a problem w/ acne...and BAM!...once I used this med...I'm 16 years old.
My Questions:
(1) Are you aware if these symptoms are associated w/ any neuromuscular conditions?
(2) Any thoughts on potential treatments?
(3) Could it be dietary? If so, are there natural remedies you'd recommend?
I thank you in advance for your time/assistance.
V/R,
Steve
Doctor's Answer
by Alan Rockoff, MD, Jan 08, 2005 12:00AM
, Jan 08, 2005 12:00AM
I think you have seborrheic dermatitis, a common rash which affects exactly the areas you describe. Cause is unknown. Mild steroids work almost overnight--the scaling is inflammation, not dryness. Try over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone twice a day and make an appointment for a doctor to see you for proper diagnosis. I know of not connection with diet. Patients with some neurological conditions such as Parkinson's Disease have more sever seborrhea, but the condition affects people without such conditions, and the treatment is the same in any case.
Take care.
Dr. Rockoff
Take care.
Dr. Rockoff
