spongiotic dermatitis

Over 5 years ago was diagnosised with lupus like syndrome, some of my lab results were slightly elevated and have remained the same now.  5 Years ago this January I was diagnosised with DCIS and treated with a lumpectomy and radiation.  About 2 years after this I started to have a sore that would not completely heal at the site of the lumpectomythat also was very itchy.  She sent me to a dermatologist who treated it with multiple creams, but still it would dry up and then when I stopped the cream it would reappear after a few days.  Finally the are got so bad that the dermatologist did a shave biopsy and it was diagnosised as spongiotic dermatitis.  This fall and winter it became so bad that the dermatologist sent me to an allergist. Now it its not only there but my arms, thighs,calves,ears and neck.  After multiple scratch tests and patch tests the only reaction was less than 1+ dust mites.  I have tried all kinds of antihistamines without and noted effect.  I follow the Weight watchers core diet which includes lots of wheat.  The only cream that seems to calm the intense itch is Elocon cream 0.1%, but my medical doctor keeps telling not to use alot of it.   Sorry for the long story, but wanted to give some background.  My question is this ... Is this related to the lupus?  Should I have further allery tests? Or is there someone else or something else that could help me treat and deal with this, maybe into remission?  The itching is frustrating.  Thanks Chris5  


This discussion is related to spongiotic dermatitis.

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,

Spongiotic dermatitis is another term for eczema.This skin condition presents with blisters and may be wet or weeping. There is an underlying autoimmune cause for spongiotic dermatitis and this may explain your physician's concern for any existing allergies.This is a chronic skin condition and there is no definite treatment for this.

I know this sounds frustrating. It is important to b proactive about this.You may discuss with your physician further allergic skin testing if indicated.For some patients, they switch to absolute hypoallergenic products.They only use organic materials for shampoos, soaps and cosmetics. They switch to bedsheets , bedcovers and pillows of hypoallergenic material. Use the cream sparingly and use creams with menthol for a cooling effect.

It is important to maintain a close follow up with your physician. Continue to maintain a healthy lifestyle. For some, the skin condition may improve in time.

[romayne2]

I was very grateful to learn more about spongiotic psoriasform dermatitis! Post a skin biopsy of my palm and a clipping of my nail it was determined that this is my condition.  My nail came back negative, however my nails are discolored, thick and "wavy".   I have been doing uv treatments twice a week and applying topical steriods 2x per day. I have a immune deficiency therefore I started Gamma Guard SD IV infusions once a month. It seems that this problem started after about the 2nd or 3rd infusion.  I'm told the two are unrelated however I was switched from Gamma Guard SD to Gamma Guard Liquid to see if any improvement was realized. 2mos later...no improvement so negative to this being part of the problem.  

Any advice, recommendations as to what can be done. palms are cracking, peeling, bleeding , itchy and very sore.  I apply a topical steriod and wear cotton gloves with vinyl gloves on when I go to bed. I need releif. I have a 6 year old grandson and I must wash my hands often.  HELP PLEASE