under arm winter rash

[pond1002]

I get an reddish rash underneath my arms almost every winter.  Perspiration causes the rash to itch.  One winter the same appeared on my inner thighs. When summer comes it disappears!  My treatments: I have switched body soaps, wash my armpits two to three times a day, gone to a medicated baby powder instead of deodorant, tried 1% hydrocortisone cream instead of medicated powder and nothing works.  My doctor said it looked fungal and recommended Lotrimin, an antifungal cream. I am three weeks on this and the rash is getting worse...not better.
I told him one or two of your readers recommended Bactroban mupirocin, but he dismissed that advice for the Lotrimin.  I need to hear from more readers who have had success with Bactroban so I can convince him to prescribe if for me.  Otherwise??  Help! Help!    rich

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

I cannot confirm anything without examination but it can be due to intertrigo,heat rashes,contact dermatitis,sweat dermatitis or eczema.

An intertrigo is an inflammation (rash) of the body folds.It most commonly occurs due to bacterial,viral or fungal infection. An intertrigo usually appears red and raw-looking, and may also itch, ooze, and be sore.

Pls keep the area clean and apply some topical antiseptics. Also wear loose-fitting cotton clothing and use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove.Avoid any kind of cosmetics.Topical zinc oxide cream like Sudocrem, Desitin are very helpful(apply with a paper towel and not directly with hands).Application of mild steroid cream like dermacort also helps.For the itching pls take some over the counter antihistaminic like benadryl or Claritin.In case the symptoms persist then pls consult a dermatologist.Other possibilities have to be ruled out.
Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted in case you have any additional doubts.Kind regards.

[pond1002]

Thanks for your prompt reply.
Will try antibacterial soap followed by zinc oxide and let you know.
pond1002