Underarm Rash...Eczema?

Hello.
I am a 22 year old female.
I have had dyshidrotic eczema for the past 5 years. It seems to either be decreasing in severity or just not as active since its summer, but it seems to be under control. However I have developed really bad rashes under my arms and on my elbows. The rashes itch and are very dry and scaly. It spread from one armpit to the other and now is taking over more area under my arms. I dont know what to do and it is getting worse! I am not sure what is causing it! Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thank you

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms the possibility of eczema needs to be ruled out. The other possibilities are of fungal infection(it is mostly moist) and erythrasma. I suggest you to get it evaluated from a dermatologist because treatment is different for both. It is steroids for eczema and antifungals for fungal infection.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.