chest and neck area

I have had a rash  for several weeks now.It started about dime size on my chest.There was a clear spot in the middle but has since filled in.It has also spread up my neck.I have been using an over the counter anti fungle cream, and a medicated anti itching powder.Is this something that needs to run its course? How long should I wait before seeing a doc? Last spring I had a similar rash in the inner leg area, and it took at least 4 months to go away. As you might guess I don't like to go to the Docs.I also have been stressed and very tired since the birth of my 3 year old. Thanks.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Jay:

Since you have a 3-year-old, I'll assume that you're at least reasonably young.  A common rash on the neck and torso of young people is a fungus called tinea versicolor.  This is not contagious and often recurs, especially in the summer.  Applying an over-the-counter cream like clotrimazole or ketoconazole couldn't hurt, and may get rid of the spots in 2 weeks of twice-daily applications.  If it doesn't, you may want to have a doc look at it.  We;re not so bad when you get to know us!

Best.  

Dr. R