Skin

[sorayab]

i have had a strange rash inside the buttocks for about 3 weeks now. its dry and some what red but not very itchy unless touched. Its also on my pubic bone, at first i thought it was an allergic reaction because im living in a very hot tropical climate plus the shaving. Im getting a bit worried that it might be an STD. What is it, i started taking antibiotics, im in cambodia and the medical service is pretty much non existant. What kind of pills should i be taking or cream? Please help.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I cannot confirm anything without examination but it can be due to contact dermatitis or eczema. Wash the areas several times with fresh water. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites. You can apply some calamine lotion at the rash as it will help in soothing the skin. You can take some OTC oral antihistamine medications like Benadryl or Claritin and see if it helps.

For mild-moderate symptoms a weak steroid may be used (e.g. hydrocortisone as dermacort), whilst more severe cases require a higher-potency steroid (e.g. clobetasol propionate, fluocinonide).Also use good quality moisturizers to prevent moisture loss from the skin.

If still the symptoms do not improve then pls get a clinical examination done by a dermatologist.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep us posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional queries.Kind regards.

[jagesh50]

Possibly tinea cruris.Candid creme should help.