Swollen scaly hands, side of face

[kareleg]

My brother-in-law hasn't seen a doctor in 25 years.  He's a heavy smoker, beer drinker and probably suffers from depression.  His eyes are yellow but what is most apparent are his hands and side of face. They're very swollen, scaley, cracked and bleeding in parts.  His face is scaly, red, raised with blotches and has these round white/clear circles.  The whole family is worried that it's something more serious.  He says it was a reaction from a pesticide in the summer.  Very concerned family.  Any suggestions?

[kareleg]

Thank you so much.  Our entire family thanks you.  I will keep you posted.  God bless.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

I cannot confirm anything without examination,but it can be due to contact dermatitis,eczema,xerosis ,psoriasis and due to liver pathologies(as he is a drinker)

Wash the areas several times with fresh water. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites. He can apply some calamine lotion at the rash as it will help in soothing the skin.He 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 he has to 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 me posted on how you are doing and if you have any additional queries.

[kareleg]

Help anyone?