Annoying rash that keeps coming back.

[MikayChan]

Since hitting the age of 19 I've been getting a rash that goes away and comes back in the same area.

It's very itchy and is more moist then dry.

It always starts in the back on my neck next to my hair line, but gets worst over a few days and can come down to the front of my neck and even to my ear lobs and up onto my scalp.

I've used many dry skin and anti-itch creams and lotions, and after a few days of applying it'd go away, but in a matter of weeks it always comes back.

Any idea what I might have? Thank you.

[maatson]

While it could be any of the above the age,location and clinical features do suggest a seborrheic dermatitis.
Do consult your doctor as suggested by the physician.
Regards and best wishes.

[Arti Sharma, M.D.]

Hi there!
From the description given by you there are a few possibilities. It could be eczema, intertrigo, dermatitis, impetigo, lichen planus or psoriasis. Dermatitis is usually caused by allergens causing redness swelling and blisters. It happens in response to allergens. Eczema can affect neck, knees, and elbows and causes oozing, bleeding blisters and thick patches caused by climate, allergens and illness.Psoraisis is characterized with the presence of thick red itchy plaques with white scales on the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back. The cause is possibly hereditary. These are a few possibilities based on the information provided by you. It is very difficult to confirm anything without external examination. Since you have already been trying anti itch creams and lotions without any effect you need to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. Hope you find this information useful. Do keep us posted.
Take care and good luck!