Bumps that grew into ringlike rash

[Moni_artist]

I recently recovered from the chickenpox a few days ago. Towards the end of my breakout, there were two very itchy areas on my forearm. I saw nothing there. A few days later, AFTER my chickenpox were over, I found it strange that in the two itchy spots, two small, reddish bumps emerged. They sort of resembled chickenpox bumps in size initially, but they lacked the same blister.

Over the next several days, the bumps grew in size (less than half the size of a dime) and seemed to form a ring. The outer ring seems to be pinkish/reddish and raised and the center is darker.

They don't really itch and they don't hurt. They are sensitive it seems, to the beating, luke-warm water of a shower. I thought maybe ringworms at first, (I held a stray cat recently) but they don't really look like any ringworms I've seen on the net.

Can someone help me know what this may be? I honestly can't afford another doctor's visit at this time and I'm trying if possible to resolve this or find some answers on my own. I've add two photos that I hope are somewhat helpful in solving this mystery.

Thanks in advance.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I cannot confirm anything without examination but it can be chicken pox bumps or molluscum contagiosum. They are caused by a viral infection and appear as multiple, small, dome-shaped papules, often with a central depression or plug.

My sincere advice would be to get it examined from a dermatologist as treatment is specific for all and diagnosis has to be made first. 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 dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[Moni_artist]

Thank you for your response. I have one follow up question. How is it possible that these things are chickenpox bumps? I didn't know it was possible for that to happen after your chickenpox were over. Again, thanks.