itchy back patch

i'm growing concerned about an itchy patch on my right back near mid spine.  It feels itchy pretty often and is not being rubbed against by my bra-strap or instigated by anything else. I've been trying to eyeball it in the mirror after showering and the area seems to be getting darker. Its about an inch and a half circular. skin is intact and not scaling off. it just itches every so often. FYI: i am an african-american female. thanks for your time.

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

This sounds like a heat rash or milaria , though nothing can be said with surety without having a look at the lesions.

'Miliaria (miliaria rubra, sweat rash or prickly heat) is a skin disease marked by small and itchy rashes. Miliaria is a common ailment in hot and humid conditions, such as in the tropics and during the summer season. '

'The prevention and treatment of miliaria primarily consists of controlling heat and humidity so that sweating is not stimulated. Measures may involve treating a febrile illness; removing occlusive clothing; limiting activity; providing air conditioning; or, as a last resort, having the patient move to a cooler climate.'

You could read more about the condition at the following links -

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miliaria

and

http://www.emedicine.com/DERM/topic266.htm

You need to wash the areas several times with fresh water. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites.

Apply calamine lotion at the site of the lesions and see if it helps. You could take some oral antihistamine medications like cetrizine or loratadine. You need to maintain a good personal hygiene . Wear lose, comfortable clothes.

Anti-itch drugs, often antihistamine, may reduce the itch during a flare up of eczema, and the reduced scratching in turn reduces damage and irritation to the skin.

Let us know if you need any other information and post us about how you are doing.

Regards.