rashes/herpetic whitlow

[nothavingfun]

i have what looks like pimples under my arms/hands and on my thighs and lighter on other areas.  I have some sporatic raised bumps on my fingers. The inside my index finger has a raised area of clearlike raised areas.  I think this area looks the worst perhaps.  The rashes so far don't look as intense as what I've seen of herpes.  The bumps have been increasing somewhat.  The underarm areas itches the most.   I did some yard work about a week or so ago and I was pulling many weeds up and some pricked my fingers.  I tend to get bumps from this type of thing but this is by far the worst I've seen.  What's the chances this rash and problems are related to the yardwork I did.  Anything else it could be?  I am on vacation with the family.  How easily can this infection be spread by touching others?    Please help ASAP.  Thanks sincerly for the help.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to contact dermatitis, allergies or pompholyx. Pompholyx primarily involves the hands and fingers and then may involve the feet. The first stage is acute and presents as itchy blisters on the hands, fingers and toes. Then the chronic stage shows more peeling, cracking, or crusting. Apply some calamine lotion on the affected area and keep the area well moisturized. Use only thin applications of moisturizer ointments as excessive amounts of ointment may restrict breathing of the skin and aggravate the condition.

Topical steroids can be applied but they are available under prescription. Moreover to prevent infection, topical antibiotics may be needed. I suggest you to consult a dermatologist and get it evaluated.

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 doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[nothavingfun]

i should note that I have some small clear pustules on the hands whilte the rash under the armpit and the arm looks like acne