could this be a fungus or bacteria?

About 6 months ago i noticed three red bumps within an inch from each other on the side of my lower right leg. I thought they could be flea bites or something similiar, continued to scratch them, they would scab up and start itching again, and so i would scratch them again. They are not circular like ringworm and do not look similiar but i tried tinactin spray on it to see if it was a similair fungus. I have been spraying it as it flares up but not getting any results. Last week one of the bumps turned into an ingrown hair, but has since gone back to the normal scab. The latest thing i have tried; I scratched the scabs back open and put iodine all over it. The skin turned a bluish color under the scabs the next day and now it is back to its normal self again.The area has also since gained a few more scabs, which i belive is from all the scratching. I am going to try wounded warrior skin ointment on it this week and then ill probably have to see a doctor. Do have any advice, suggestions, anything?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Without examination,confirmation of a diagnosis is tough but it can be folliculitis,contact dermatitis,rash due to friction rub with clothes, dermatitis (atopic, contact, allergic), scabies or an underlying infection (bacterial and fungal as well as other organisms .

You may try calamine lotion on the rash.You should also maintain hygiene and try to keep the area clean and dry, wear loose-fitting cotton clothing. Also use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove.Avoid any kind of cosmetics.You can also use an antibiotic cream like Neosporin or a mild steroid cream like dermacort on the rash. If the bumps are itchy,you  can take some antihistaminic like benadryl or Claritin.Also pls avoid scratching the bumps as it may get infected.

If the bumps persist then it will be best to get it evaluated from 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.